Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and Gateron Smoothie Silver are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Box Jade is a clicky switch that offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver is a linear switch known for its lightning-fast actuation and smooth keystrokes thanks to its all-POM material construction. While the Box Jade is ideal for those who enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Smoothie Silver is perfect for users who prefer a fast and smooth keystroke without the distraction of audible feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, we see a noticeable difference in their top housings. The Box Jade utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver uses POM for its top housing, producing a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Box Jade leans towards a brighter and more distinct sound, while the POM of the Smoothie Silver leans towards a deeper and softer sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing of these switches, the Box Jade features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing also contributes to a pleasing and unique sound, emphasizing depth and a muted tone. Despite the difference in material, both bottom housings serve to enhance the sound profile of their respective switches, providing a distinct typing experience for users.
Overall, while the Box Jade and the Smoothie Silver differ in their housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate and nylon combination of the Box Jade delivers a sharper and crisper sound, while the POM housing of the Smoothie Silver creates a deeper and more muted tone. Whether you prefer the bright and resonant sound of the Box Jade or the deep and pleasing sound of the Smoothie Silver, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with their carefully crafted housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, we can see that the Box Jade requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Smoothie Silver's 45 grams, making the latter slightly lighter. However, the Box Jade also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver is unknown. This means that the Box Jade provides a more substantial typing experience with a greater force needed to fully press the key, whereas the Smoothie Silver may offer a lighter and potentially smoother typing experience. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Smoothie Silver for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Box Jade for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer different weight characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Smoothie Silver the shorter option of the two. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Box Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
The Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch stands out for its high-pitched and crunchy sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience for those who enjoy crisp and sharp clicks while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offers a thocky sound, known for its smoothness and feather-light touch. The sound produced by each switch is influenced not only by the switch itself but also by the keyboard, keycaps, and overall setup.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is described as accented and invigorating, offering a medium-heavy typing experience with crunchy tactile bumps and a satisfying amount of feedback. On the contrary, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is known for its smoothness and short travel distance, providing lightning-fast actuation and a lighter touch. While the Box Jade switch focuses on providing a tactile typing experience, the Smoothie Silver switch prioritizes speed and smoothness.
Overall, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer unique experiences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a crisp and high-pitched sound with tactile feedback, the Box Jade is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness, lightning-fast actuation, and a lighter touch, the Smoothie Silver switch may be more suitable for you. Whether you choose the Box Jade or the Smoothie Silver, both switches are top choices in their respective categories and will provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a distinctive clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Box Jade is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound profile, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver may be more suited to your preferences. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, so weigh your priorities and choose accordingly for an optimal typing experience.
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