Gateron Beer vs. Kailh Box Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Kailh Box Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron Beer and the Kailh Box Jade. The Gateron Beer switch is known for its translucent green appearance resembling a Tsingtao beer bottle, offering a unique aesthetic. It is a tactile switch that provides a subtle and easy-to-press experience with a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Jade switch offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and invigorating tactile bumps. Its high-pitched clicks and crunchy feel make it stand out. While the Beer switch is 'clacky' and 'stepped', the Box Jade switch is 'accented' and 'crunchy'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing preferences. 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
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Beer and the Kailh Box Jade feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff plastic composition. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for better resonance and clarity in sound production. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it enhances the overall visual appeal of the keyboard.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Gateron Beer is also made of polycarbonate, offering similar sound properties as the top housing. This means that the overall sound profile of the Beer switch will be consistent and resonant throughout the press and release of a key. In contrast, the Kailh Box Jade features a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate.
In terms of typing experience, the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Kailh Box Jade play a significant role in the sound and feel of the switch. The split between polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housing affects how the switch sounds when pressed down and released. The impact of the bottom housing is more evident during bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound created when a key is released. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Beer switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch while typing. On the other hand, the Box Jade switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a tactile bump and audible click, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, we find that the Beer has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Box Jade has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Beer. The difference between the two may not be significant, but for those who prefer a more responsive feel, the Beer with its shorter travel distance might be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a bit more depth and tactility in their keystrokes may lean towards the Box Jade with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, and the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Gateron Beer tactile switch is best described as producing a clacky sound when pressed, giving off a sharp and percussive noise. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Beer providing a clacky and bright sound, while the Box Jade delivers a sharp and crisp clicky sound with a crunchy tactile feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is characterized by being easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring low actuation force. Additionally, it features a stepped tactility, providing a more mild and two-stage tactile feedback compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is known for its accented and invigorating feel, offering a medium-tactile sensation with a pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Beer being light and easy to type on, while the Box Jade provides a more prominent and invigorating tactile response.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer and Kailh Box Jade switches offer unique and subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Beer switch provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel with a stepped tactility, creating a refreshingly lightweight typing experience. Conversely, the Box Jade switch offers a high-pitched clicky sound and an invigorating tactile feel with accented feedback, making it perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, but both options promise to deliver a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Gateron Beer switch if you prefer a lighter actuation force, easy-to-press keys, and a clacky sound signature. This switch offers a unique stepped tactility that provides a subtle yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Kailh Box Jade switch if you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps. These switches offer an invigorating feel with a moderate to firm actuation force and an accented tactile feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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