Kailh Box Jade vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro offer contrasting experiences. The Box Jade is preferred by those seeking a medium-heavy typing feel with both a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, characterized by its high-pitched and invigorating qualities. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro is perfect for budget-conscious individuals looking for a smooth and poppy linear switch, epitomized by its creamy and bouncy attributes. While both switches have their own unique appeal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro are very similar, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches enhances the overall aesthetic appeal while also contributing to a clear and resonant sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Kailh Box Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. While the differences between polycarbonate and nylon can impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, the choice of housing materials reflects a commitment to enhancing the typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Kailh Box Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro demonstrates a focus on sound quality and tactile feedback. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile and nylon bottom housings for a fuller sound experience, the unique combination of these materials contributes to a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with a polycarbonate top housing or a deeper sound with a nylon bottom housing, both switches offer distinctive qualities that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Box Jade has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro's 55 grams, making the Box Jade the lighter option. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Box Jade requires 60 grams while the V3 Cream Black Pro needs 65 grams, making the V3 Cream Black Pro the heavier option. Both switches fall into the medium range for actuation force, but the V3 Cream Black Pro leans towards medium-heavy when it comes to bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two comes down to personal preference whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch. This means that the Box Jade switch offers a slightly more extensive keypress experience compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro switch. The Box Jade switch may provide a more satisfying feel for users who prefer a deeper keypress, while the V3 Cream Black Pro switch may appeal to those who enjoy a shorter and more responsive keypress. Both switches offer different travel distances, catering to individual preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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, both the Kailh Box Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches are described as having a high-pitched profile. The Box Jade offers a crisp and crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp leaves, while the V3 Cream Black Pro impresses with a poppy and clacky sound. Depending on personal preference, the Box Jade may provide a slightly richer sound due to its clicky nature, while the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a smooth and unique typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Box Jade is noted for its invigorating and accented tactile experience, providing just the right balance of feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a creamy and polished typing sensation, with a smooth and bouncy feel that is highly responsive. Both switches aim to deliver an immersive typing experience, but the Box Jade leans towards a more tactile feedback while the V3 Cream Black Pro focuses on smoothness and responsiveness. Whether you prefer a bouncy and polished feel or a crisp and tactile feedback, both switches offer unique qualities for different typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade and Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches each have their own strengths in sound and feel. The Box Jade excels in providing a crisp and crunchy clicky sound with invigorating tactile feedback, while the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its poppy and clacky sound with a smooth and bouncy typing feel. Depending on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or smoothness in your typing experience, either switch can offer a satisfying performance for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand will help you determine which one suits your preferences best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility, the Box Jade is the way to go. On the other hand, if you appreciate a smooth and buttery typing feel with a poppy and clacky sound profile, the V3 Cream Black Pro is the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing sensation you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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