Kailh Box Jade vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the Durock T1. The Box Jade is renowned for its medium-heavy typing experience, offering a satisfying clicky sound profile and plenty of tactility. This switch's crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is known for its superior comfort during typing sessions. This tactile switch provides a medium bump when pressed down, evoking the soothing sound of rain falling on a window. While the Box Jade emphasizes a high-pitched, invigorating feel, the T1 leans towards a stepped, low-pitched sensation. Both switches have their unique qualities, offering different sound profiles and levels of tactility. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your personal keyboarding preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Durock T1 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing materials. This choice of material creates similar sound profiles, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through beautifully. Therefore, users can expect comparable results when it comes to sound and aesthetics with both the Box Jade and the T1 switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches opt for a nylon material. Nylon has long been a preferred choice for switch housing due to its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. This characteristic of nylon is utilized in both the Box Jade and the T1 switches, ensuring that typists will enjoy a satisfying auditory experience when using either switch.
It is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are split between the two switches. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction is essential to consider when evaluating the overall typing experience and desired sound profile for a keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Box Jade is 50 grams, while the precise actuation force of the T1 is unavailable. However, both switches fall under the medium category. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Box Jade is 60 grams, making it slightly lighter than the T1, which has a bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the T1 is slightly heavier than the Box Jade.
Considering weight, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Box Jade. Its actuation force of 50 grams allows for comfortable typing over extended periods, making it suitable for those who use their keyboard for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users may prefer a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push. In this case, they might find the heavier bottom out force of the T1, at 67 grams, more to their liking. These individuals might prioritize the tactile feedback and the extra resistance offered by the heavier force.
In terms of the actuation and bottom out forces, the Box Jade and T1 provide similar results in terms of actuation force as both fall into the medium category. However, the T1 offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more pronounced keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of comparison, the T1 has a slightly longer travel distance than the Box Jade. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.0 mm is shallower. However, shorter travel distances have become more popular, particularly among gamers who seek faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the shorter travel distance of the Box Jade would be beneficial. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial key press, the longer travel distance of the T1 might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance and the desired tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Jade switch has a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce sharp and crisp clicks that resemble stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The sound is more bass-heavy and mellow, similar to the sound of rain falling on a window. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, if you prefer a higher-pitched and crunchy sound, the Box Jades would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a lower-pitched and more neutral sound, the T1 switches would be more suitable.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience. These switches have a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They provide a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switch has a stepped and accented tactile feel. This means that the switch provides a medium level of tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, the T1 switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish, which results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a switch with a prominent amount of tactility and an invigorating feel, the Box Jades would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a stepped tactile feel and a polished finish for smoother typing, the T1 switches would be more suitable.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Kailh Box Jade switches are best suited for those who want a medium-heavy typing experience with a high-pitched, crunchy sound profile and accented, invigorating feel. The sharp and crisp clicks, along with the prominent tactile bumps, provide a satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a low-pitched, neutral sound profile and a stepped, accented tactile feel. The sound of rain falling on a window and the medium bump add to the overall typing comfort. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, if you prefer one quality over the other (such as sound or feel), you can expect similar results with either switch.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you want a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and distinct tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switch would be a great choice for you. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make for an invigorating typing sensation. These switches have a high-pitched sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, if you prioritize comfort and a medium bump while typing, the Durock T1 switch is the way to go. The low-pitched sound of rain falling on a window adds to the soothing experience. Notably, the T1 switch is stepped, providing a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction. Whether you prefer the invigorating feel and high-pitched sound of the Box Jades or the comfortable and low-pitched experience of the T1 switches, both options offer their own unique advantages based on your personal preferences.
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