Kailh Box Jade vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, you're faced with two distinct options for your mechanical keyboard. The Box Jades are ideal for those looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience with a bright and chirpy sound signature, thanks to their fully polycarbonate construction. While the Box Jades provide a crunchy and invigorating typing experience, the Crystal Pro switches offer a bouncy and polished feel. 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
48g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Box Jade features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the V3 Crystal Pro has a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with the top housing to create a sharper and more vibrant sound overall.
Despite some differences in housing materials, the overall sound experience of pressing a key between the Kailh Box Jade and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro will be quite similar due to their shared polycarbonate top housing. The stiffer plastic used in the top housing of both switches contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, especially when compared to softer plastics. However, where the switches may diverge in sound is during the actuation and release of a key. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it be nylon in the Box Jade or polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro, will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will have a greater effect on the sound upon releasing a key.
In conclusion, while both the Kailh Box Jade and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Box Jade's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound, creating a rounder sound experience. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing aligns with the top housing to maintain a sharper and more resonant sound overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference regarding the specific sound profile desired when typing or gaming.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are some differences to note. The Box Jade has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 48 grams, making it a bit heavier to press down initially. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a consistent typing experience once fully depressed. This means that while the initial press may feel slightly lighter on the V3 Crystal Pro, the overall typing experience in terms of bottoming out will be similar between the two switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter initial press or a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Jade. However, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal and may not be noticeable to some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the feel of the switch when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offers a high-pitched and crunchy typing experience, producing sharp and crisp clicks reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch provides a chirpy sound signature, adding a unique squeak to your typing sessions. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance your overall typing experience, depending on your preference for sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium tactile experience with a satisfying amount of tactility and feedback. In comparison, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy and polished feel, giving a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, refined typing experience. Whether you prefer a more tactile and invigorating feel or a bouncy and polished touch, both switches cater to different typing preferences and styles.
Overall, while the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer contrasting sound and feel qualities, they both provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences. If you are looking for a switch with a clicky sound profile and medium-heavy typing experience, the Box Jade is a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a bright and chirpy sound signature and silky smooth typing feel, the V3 Crystal Pro would be a suitable choice. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Box Jades are the perfect choice for you. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing a satisfying experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and silky typing experience with a bright and chirpy sound, the V3 Crystal Pro switches with their polycarbonate construction are the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the tactile feel and clicky sound of the Box Jades or the smoothness and unique sound of the V3 Crystal Pro switches. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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