Kailh Box Jade vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offer distinct typing experiences. The Box Jade is perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on them a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is an ideal choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts looking for a poppy, clacky sound and smooth typing feel. While the Box Jade is characterized as high-pitched and invigorating, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is described as easy-to-press, bouncy, and polished. Both switches have their strengths, so choosing the best one for you ultimately depends on your 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches, making them ideal for users who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually pleasing element to the switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Box Jade uses nylon for its bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, users who prefer a deeper typing sound may lean towards the Box Jade, while those who prefer a crisper sound may prefer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro.
When it comes to typing experience, the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. The top housing impacts the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Therefore, users looking for a more well-rounded typing experience may find that the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Box Jade provides a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro may cater to those who prefer a crisper and clearer typing experience.
Weight
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch both have the same actuation force and bottom out force of 50 grams and 60 grams respectively, making them equally medium in terms of weight. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of force required for keystrokes and bottoming out. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force and bottom out force for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will likely come down to personal preference in terms of force required for typing.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Box Jade. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a deeper key press, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch with its slightly longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 clicky switch showcases a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, producing sharp and crisp clicks that resemble stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy and clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, the Box Jade would be the ideal choice, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a more budget-friendly option with a satisfying smoothness.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch offers an invigorating typing sensation with accentuated tactile feedback and a medium actuation force. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch provides an easy-to-press experience with light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods. Additionally, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is described as feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, allowing for a smooth and refined typing experience.
Overall, if you prioritize a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and crunchy tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switch would be your top choice. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option that provides a smooth and low-impact typing feel with a poppy and clacky sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch would be the ideal pick. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you will get a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, keep in mind your preferences for typing experience. If you value a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and pronounced tactile feedback, then the Box Jade is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a budget-friendly option that offers a poppy, clacky sound with a smooth feel and easy actuation, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a great choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in sound, feel, and typing style. Consider how you like your switches to sound and feel before making your final choice.
Mentioned in this article
