Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Ink Black V2, two popular mechanical keyboard switches with distinctive characteristics. The Box Jade is a clicky switch that offers a medium-heavy typing experience accompanied by a satisfying clicky sound profile and tactility. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make it a great choice for those who enjoy a more invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch highly regarded in the community. It boasts a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, perfect for those seeking a seamless typing experience. While the Box Jade leans towards a higher-pitched and accented sound profile, the Ink Black V2 offers a lower-pitched, bassy sound with a touch of chirpiness. Both switches have their own unique charm and advantages. However, let's explore each switch in more depth to help you decide which one suits your preferences best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Ink Black V2 have distinct differences in their housing materials, which result in different sound profiles. The Box Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 has a proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched, yet not overly sharp sound. Both switches provide satisfying thin and higher-pitched sounds, but the Box Jade's polycarbonate housing is especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches contribute to their sound profiles. The Box Jade's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches offer a clacky sound experience.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will affect different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. Pressing down on the switch will showcase the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the characteristics of the top housing. While the Box Jade and Ink Black V2 have their unique housing materials, they both provide satisfying and distinct sound experiences that enthusiasts appreciate.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Box Jade has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Ink Black V2's 60 grams. This means that the Box Jade switch requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Box Jade has a slightly heavier force of 60 grams, while the Ink Black V2 has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it slightly heavier.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Box Jade switch would be a good choice, as its actuation force is lower. This can be beneficial for individuals who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Ink Black V2 switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. The added force provides a stronger push feel, which some users find more satisfying.
It is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, so in terms of overall weight, they are relatively similar. Therefore, if weight is the primary consideration, selecting either the Box Jade or the Ink Black V2 would result in comparable results. Ultimately, the decision would come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it is clear that the Box Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ink Black V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm.
In terms of preference, the 4.0mm travel distance of the Ink Black V2 falls within the more traditional range, providing a sense of depth when pressing down on a key. This can be appealing to individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the shorter 3.6mm travel distance of the Box Jade offers a quicker response time, which is highly desired by gamers seeking faster reactions during gameplay.
It is important to note that personal preferences vary, and while some may find the shorter travel distance of the Box Jade to be more responsive, others may find it to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on an individual's specific needs and preferences. Both switches offer their own advantages, and regardless of the travel distance, users can expect a satisfying typing or gaming experience from either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch produces a high-pitched, crisp sound when pressed, which is characteristic of clicky switches. It also has a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. This switch provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactile bumps. The tactile feedback it offers is accented, meaning it provides a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Box Jade switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel.
On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. It also has a rich and deep clack, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, this switch has a unique acoustic signature, described as chirpy, which sets it apart from others. The Ink Black V2 offers a smooth downstroke, providing a gentle typing experience. It falls under the category of mild switches, which have a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. The switch is also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In summary, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade produces a high-pitched and crunchy sound, with an invigorating and accented tactile feel. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 has a low-pitched and rich sound with a chirpy acoustic signature. Its feel is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle and smooth typing experience. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between a medium-heavy typing experience with pronounced feedback and a clicky sound, or a smooth and mellow typing experience with a rich clack. Both switches provide unique and enjoyable typing sensations.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switch is the perfect choice for you. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps provide an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. The high-pitched and crunchy sound profile adds an extra layer of satisfaction to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and refined typing experience with a more gentle and approachable feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is the way to go. Its smooth downstroke and rich clack create a polished and mild typing experience. The low-pitched and bassy sound profile, with a hint of chirp, adds a unique acoustic signature to your keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.
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