Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences are the Kailh Box Jade, a clicky switch, and the Gateron Ink Box Black, a linear switch.

The Box Jade switches are perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility. With their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, typing on these switches becomes an invigorating experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switches provide an incredibly smooth and creamy typing experience. The sound signature of these switches evokes the image of a spray paint can being shaken, offering a clacky yet polished feel.

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

Kailh Box Jade Clicky

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$5.50 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches differ in terms of their composition. The Box Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Ink Box Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is not overly sharp. This blend results in a satisfying clacky sound that is preferred by many.

In terms of the bottom housing material, the Box Jade utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black incorporates Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which also contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This material provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, similar to the top housing.

When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities brought by each material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on the switch will predominantly highlight the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the materials differ, both the Box Jade and the Ink Box Black switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience in their own ways.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The Box Jade has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Ink Box Black requires a slightly heavier force of 60 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Box Jade requires 60 grams of force compared to the Ink Box Black's 70 grams. This makes the Ink Box Black the heavier option in both categories.

Considering these weights, those who prefer a lighter typing experience would likely lean towards the Box Jade. This lighter actuation and bottom out force allow for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it a preferred choice for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or gaming. On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Ink Box Black. With its heavier forces, it provides a satisfying push, delivering a stronger tactile feedback during typing.

Overall, while both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, their differences in actuation and bottom out forces create distinctions that cater to different preferences. Those seeking a lighter typing experience will find the Box Jade more suitable, while individuals desiring a more substantial and tactile feel may prefer the heavier Ink Box Black. Regardless of the choice made, both switches offer their own unique advantages, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience for users.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a tactile feedback and a smooth keystroke experience. Therefore, whether you choose the Box Jade or the Ink Box Black, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is best known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and crisp sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is described as clacky with a high-pitched sound. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches offer a similar high-pitched sound profile, but the Box Jade provides an additional crunchy sound due to its clicky mechanism.

Moving on to feel, the Box Jade is described as an accented switch, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It provides a moderate to firm actuation force, resulting in an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black provides a silky and polished feel. This means that it offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Ink Box Black gives a refined and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Based on the available information, the Kailh Box Jade and Gateron Ink Box Black switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound and crunchy tactile bumps, the Box Jade is a great choice. However, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a sharp and snappy sound, the Ink Box Black is more suitable. It's important to consider personal preferences and the overall setup including the keyboard and keycaps when making a decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics in their respective categories, providing a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches are perfect for you. These switches offer crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, creating an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. The high-pitched sound profile adds to the overall typing experience, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches are a great choice. These switches are incredibly smooth and offer a silky typing feel, minimizing resistance and providing a polished experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for clicky vs. linear, as well as the desired weight and sound profile. Both switches offer unique features and advantages, so consider your personal typing preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Jade Clicky

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more