Kailh Box Jade vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Kailh Box Jade and the Gazzew U4 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. If you are in search of a medium-heavy typing experience accompanied by a satisfying clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Box Jade is the switch for you. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps of the Box Jade create a truly invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter keyboard while still enjoying a pronounced tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 is a fantastic choice. The U4 offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile feedback, coupled with an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Its sound profile is described as whisper quiet, making it an excellent option for those who value subtlety. However, let's delve deeper beyond these general characteristics so that you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gazzew U4 differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Box Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This stiffer plastic resonates more clearly, resulting in a crisper sound profile. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate allows for the effective use of RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, sometimes known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. This unique plastic blend produces a sound that is fuller and more resonant, offering a distinct auditory experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Box Jade incorporates a nylon material, which contributes to a deep and full sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a dulled and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," which is soft and provides a rich and deep sound profile. The use of this unique plastic blend contributes to enhanced auditory feedback, creating a satisfying typing experience.
While the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gazzew U4 differ, both switches offer distinct sound profiles. The transparent polycarbonate top housing in the Box Jade produces a sharp and high-pitched sound, while the Gazzew U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing generates a rich and deep sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Box Jade contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the Gazzew U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing maintains a soft and resonant sound. Therefore, depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying auditory experience, albeit with different characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. In terms of weight, the Box Jade switch is slightly heavier than the U4 switch. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the U4 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force range.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the U4 may be the better option as it has a slightly lighter actuation force. This can be advantageous for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue. However, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, where a stronger push feel is preferred, the Box Jade switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out force may be more suitable.
It is also worth noting that the bottom out force of the U4 switch is slightly higher than that of the Box Jade switch. This means that when pressing the U4 switch all the way down, there will be a slightly heavier resistance compared to the Box Jade.
In summary, while the Box Jade clicky switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have similar medium force ranges, the Box Jade is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing experience and the desired level of resistance.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent and similar key press experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Whether one prefers the clicky feedback of the Box Jade or the tactile feedback of the U4, both switches will offer the same level of travel distance and therefore result in a comparable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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 is known for its high-pitched and crunchy profile. The high-pitched sound produces a sharp and crisp noise when pressed, which some may find satisfying. The crunchy characteristic of the switch, commonly associated with clicky switches, creates a sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a muted sound profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. Additionally, the U4 has a low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors, such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience. The accented characteristic describes a medium tactile switch that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. This means that when typing on the Box Jade, you can expect a noticeable tactile bump that enhances the typing sensation. Furthermore, the invigorating nature of the switch offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. This combination creates an immersive and satisfying typing experience.
In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump. This means that the feedback intensity of the U4 switch is high, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. This gives typists a clear indication of when the switch actuates. Additionally, the U4 switch provides an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. This gives the switch a unique feel that adds to the overall tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade provides a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, while the U4 offers a muted and low-pitched sound experience. In terms of feel, the Box Jade is described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium tactile feel with pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the U4 switch is characterized by a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation. While these switches offer distinct qualities, it's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between the two. If a clicky and crunchy experience is desired, the Box Jade is a great option. If a quieter and sharply tactile switch with a unique bottom-out sensation appeals, the U4 is a compelling choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be a great choice for you. You'll enjoy the crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps they offer when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent and more subtle tactile experience, the Gazzew U4 switches would be a better fit. These switches provide a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with a plush bottom-out sensation. The U4 switches also have a whisper-quiet sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a muted and low-pitched switch sound. Overall, the decision between the Kailh Box Jade and Gazzew U4 switches will ultimately depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
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