Kailh Box Jade vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Gold Pink are two popular options that offer unique characteristics. The Box Jades are perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactility. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Pinks are known for their lightness, with an actuation force of 37g, making them ideal for fast and effortless typing or gaming. These switches offer a clacky sound and deliver a light and lively typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Gold Pink switches are largely similar. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics, users can expect similar results from both the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Gold Pink switches.
However, there is a difference in the housing materials for the bottom housing. The Box Jade utilizes nylon, while the Gold Pink also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, the bottom-out sound and feel of the Box Jade and the Gold Pink switches will be influenced by the qualities of their respective nylon bottom housings.
It is important to note that the housings of the switches play a significant role in the overall typing experience. With the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Gold Pink switches, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom components. While the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. So, users can expect subtle differences in the overall sound profiles and tactile experiences of the two switches due to variations in their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in their weight. The Box Jade switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of resistance. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a lighter option.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Pink switch would be an ideal choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke, allowing for longer and more comfortable typing sessions. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who spend extended periods of time typing, such as in professional settings or during lengthy gaming sessions.
Alternatively, the Box Jade switch provides a stronger push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. This can be advantageous for individuals who desire a tactile feedback and a more pronounced sensation while typing.
In both cases, the actuation and bottom out forces of the switches play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. While the Gold Pink switch is lighter and the Box Jade switch is heavier, each offers its own unique benefits. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the individual's personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, we can see that the Box Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gold Pink has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold Pink switch falls into the category of the more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Box Jade switch offers a shorter travel distance, which is often preferred by gamers for its faster response times. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference. If you value a more responsive typing experience, the Box Jade would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial feel and deeper key presses, the Gold Pink would be the suitable option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Jade switches are known for their high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which can be likened to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the sound profile of the TTC Gold Pink switches is unknown. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switches offer an invigorating typing experience. These switches have a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. They fall into the category of accented switches, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink switches are described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The gold pinks offer a gentle typing experience, suitable for extended typing sessions and reducing finger fatigue.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade switches provide a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and considerable tactility. They are known for their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, delivering an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink switches offer a light and lively typing experience with a lower actuation force. While the sound profile and specific feel of the Gold Pink switches are unknown, their qualities suggest a smooth and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for weight, sound, and tactile feedback. However, if one desires a similar result to the Box Jade switches but with a lighter touch, the Gold Pink switches may offer a comparable experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a satisfying level of tactility with their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps. Additionally, they have a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a light and lively typing experience, particularly suited for rapid typing or gaming, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of only 45 grams, these switches offer effortless keystrokes and fast actuation. While the sound profile of the Box Jade is described as high-pitched and crunchy, no specific sound profile is mentioned for the Gold Pink. In terms of feel, the Box Jade is described as accented and invigorating, providing prominent tactility and a reactive feel. In contrast, the Gold Pink is characterized as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth, gentle, comfortable, and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch depends on your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and feel.
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