Kailh Box Jade vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Kailh Box Jade and TTC Gold Brown are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct experiences for different typing preferences. The Box Jade is perfect for those who desire a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility. Typists will appreciate the crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps when using these switches. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switches embody balance, featuring a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. These switches offer a rounded sound profile that is generally softer than most switches, without being completely silent. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Gold Brown both utilize polycarbonate material for their top housings. This choice offers similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This makes it ideal for those who desire a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. Therefore, both switches offer comparable results in terms of sound and appearance.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Box Jade and the Gold Brown feature nylon material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that offers distinct advantages. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the switches with nylon bottom housings create a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and depth from both the Box Jade and the Gold Brown.
It is worth noting that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in the overall typing experience. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Kailh Box Jade and TTC Gold Brown share similar characteristics in their respective top and bottom housings, the overall typing experience may differ slightly depending on the specific combination of materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. Firstly, the actuation force of the Box Jade is slightly lighter at 50 grams, while the Gold Brown requires a force of 55 grams for actuation. Both switches fall within the medium range, making them suitable for users who prefer a moderate typing experience.
In terms of bottom out force, the Box Jade requires 60 grams of force, whereas the Gold Brown requires 63 grams. Again, both switches are similar in this aspect, providing a comparable level of resistance when fully pressed.
Considering weight, users who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Box Jade, as its actuation and bottom out forces are slightly lighter compared to the Gold Brown. This can be advantageous for those who spend extended periods typing or gaming and value the ability to do so comfortably. On the other hand, individuals who prioritize a more substantial and tactile typing experience might lean towards the Gold Brown. Its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces can provide a stronger push feel, giving users a more pronounced keystroke response.
In summary, while the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and TTC Gold Brown tactile switch have similar actuation and bottom out forces, the Box Jade offers a slightly lighter typing experience, ideal for prolonged usage, while the Gold Brown provides a heavier and more tactile keystroke, suitable for those seeking a pronounced typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Gold Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Box Jade has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Brown being more traditional. However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. For those looking for a more responsive typing experience, the Box Jade would be the preferred option. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper key press may find the Gold Brown more satisfying. Overall, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preferences for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 switches have a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. The high-pitched sound produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which is great if you prefer a more vibrant and lively sound compared to deeper and bassy tones. The crunchy sound is commonly associated with clicky switches, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown switches have a neutral sound profile. They offer a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a sound that is generally softer than most switches without being completely silent. This makes them suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you're using them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel, the Kailh Box Jade switches are described as accented and invigorating. Accented switches provide a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. This means the Box Jade switches offer a prominent amount of tactility without being too scratchy. The invigorating feel of these switches is characterized by pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy, reactive feel. This combination creates an immersive typing sensation that can enhance your overall typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown switches have a mild and buttery feel. The mild characteristic of these switches offers a gentle typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a more approachable feel. The buttery aspect implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing seamless and effortless typing sensations. Additionally, the Gold Brown switches are also described as accented and polished, indicating a medium level of tactility and a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
To summarize, the Kailh Box Jade switches have a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, as well as an accented and invigorating feel. They are perfect for individuals seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound and tactile bumps. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown switches provide a neutral sound profile that is softer than most switches, along with a mild and buttery feel. They offer a satisfying bump, moderate weightiness, and a balanced typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities, catering to different preferences. If you're looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, the TTC Gold Brown switches can provide a quieter and smoother experience with a gentle tactility, while still maintaining a balanced typing sensation.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and a significant amount of tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches are the perfect choice for you. These switches offer crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, providing a satisfying and immersive typing sensation. Additionally, if you prefer a high-pitched and crunchy sound when typing, the Box Jade switches will deliver that sharp and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced typing experience with a moderate weightiness and a softer sound profile, the TTC Gold Brown switches are an excellent option. These switches offer a slight, satisfying bump with a rounded sound that is generally much quieter than most switches. Moreover, if you value a smooth and polished typing experience, the Gold Brown switches with their buttery and polished characteristics will provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Overall, both switches have their unique qualities and it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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