Kailh Box Jade vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and TTC Gold Brown Pro offer distinct typing experiences. The Box Jades are ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing a satisfyingly audible and tactile experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is perfect for individuals who prefer a more subtle and nuanced feedback. With a gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile, these switches provide a background presence that allows for focused typing without distraction. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and TTC Gold Brown Pro switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Despite having the same material for the top housing, the switches may still differ in sound based on other factors such as stem design and spring weight.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, contributing to the overall typing experience. While both switches use the same nylon material for the bottom housing, the overall typing experience may still vary based on factors such as keycap material and key switch design.
When comparing the overall sound and feel of the Kailh Box Jade and TTC Gold Brown Pro switches, it's important to consider how the different housing materials contribute to the typing experience. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile and nylon bottom housings for a fuller sound, the distribution of these materials within the switches may impact the overall typing feel. Additionally, other factors such as stem design, spring weight, and keycap material can also influence the sound and feel of the switches, creating a unique typing experience for each.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Box Jade has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Box Jade at 60 grams is higher than the Gold Brown Pro which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Box Jade provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Gold Brown Pro, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may choose the Box Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Brown Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Jade. The 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and experience of typing on the keyboard. Those who prefer a more responsive and shallower feel may lean towards the Box Jade, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may opt for the Gold Brown Pro. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so neither one is objectively better than the other.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 offers a high-pitched and crunchy clicky sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy sharp and crisp clicks with every keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro provides a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound experience, allowing for a deeper, richer tone that remains subtle and understated. While the Box Jade may be more attention-grabbing with its crunchy sound, the Gold Brown Pro offers a more subdued and immersive typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box Jade is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither too overwhelming nor too subtle. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro offers a polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped typing feel, ensuring a smooth and refined experience with a gentle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. While the Box Jade offers a more pronounced and invigorating tactile sensation, the Gold Brown Pro focuses on a smoother and more subtle typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a high-pitched clicky sound profile and accented tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch caters to individuals who prefer a subtle, nuanced typing experience with a thocky, low-pitched sound profile and a polished, silky feel. Both switches provide excellent options depending on your personal preferences, with the Box Jade being more attention-grabbing and invigorating, while the Gold Brown Pro offers a smoother, understated typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile and audible experience or a more subtle and refined typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and prominent tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches are the way to go. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps they provide make every keystroke engaging and satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and nuanced tactile feedback with a subdued sound profile, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches are perfect for you. Their gentle tactile bump and quiet operation allow you to focus on your tasks without unnecessary distraction. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches should depend on whether you prioritize a more pronounced typing experience (Box Jade) or a more understated and smooth typing feel (Gold Brown Pro). Consider your preference for sound and feel when making your decision.
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