Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Ink Red. The Box Jade is a clicky switch that delivers a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfyingly crisp click sound and crunchy tactile bumps. On the other hand, the Ink Red is a linear switch with a lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. It provides a smooth and effortless typing experience, accompanied by a crispy and clacky sound profile. Both switches have their distinctive characteristics, but let's delve deeper into their qualities to help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Ink Red have different housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Box Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Ink Red utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend in its top housing. This blend produces a relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky and satisfying. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Ink Red's sound is not overly sharp compared to the Box Jade.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Box Jade incorporates a nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red houses its bottom housing with the same proprietary INK blend as the top housing. This results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that complements the overall sound profile of the Ink Red switch. Both bottom housings offer distinct sound characteristics, with the Box Jade providing a deeper sound and the Ink Red exhibiting a more pointed and higher-pitched sound.
While the Box Jade and Ink Red differ in their housing materials, it is important to note that their sound profiles are intricately influenced by both the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing, which has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch. The Ink Red's INK blend bottom housing complements the clacky and satisfying sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Box Jade elicits a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade and the INK blend top housing of the Ink Red each bring their own unique qualities to the switches. Overall, understanding the distinction between the top and bottom housing materials is crucial in appreciating the sound profiles of these switches.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, one noticeable difference is their actuation forces. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Ink Red requires slightly lighter pressure with an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a medium actuation force, meaning they provide a satisfying amount of resistance without being too heavy. On the other hand, their bottom out forces are exactly the same, weighing in at 60 grams. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a similar experience when it comes to fully pressing down the keys. The slight variation in actuation force may be a factor to consider depending on personal preference. Some individuals may prefer the lighter touch of the Ink Red, which can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. Conversely, others may opt for the slightly heavier actuation force of the Box Jade, as it offers a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether a lighter or more robust actuation force is desired, as both switches provide a consistent bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Ink Red has a slight advantage with its longer distance. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Ink Red falls into the more traditional range, offering a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the Box Jade's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance caters to gamers and individuals who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation and can enhance the overall responsiveness of the keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference. If you prefer a shallower and snappier key press, the Box Jade with its shorter travel distance would be the better option. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel, the Ink Red with its longer travel distance would be the choice to go for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red 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 Red for $7.35.
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 is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. When pressed, the Box Jades produce sharp and crisp clicks, similar to the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. This sound profile is ideal for those who prefer a more rich and bassy sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a chirpy touch. While the sound of a switch is also affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps, the Ink Reds have a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners, advanced typists, or using the switches at home or work.
In terms of feel, the Box Jade switch provides an accented and invigorating typing experience. It offers a medium level of tactility, providing a noticeable tactile bump without being overwhelming or too subtle. The combination of pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel creates an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a silky and mild typing experience. It provides an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The mild characteristics of the Ink Reds make them approachable to most users, as they find a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in sleek key travel and reduced friction.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade provides a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile with an accented and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Reds offer a neutral sound profile with a chirpy touch and a silky and mild typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, one can choose a switch that suits their typing style. However, it is important to note that the overall sound of the switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you want a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and prominent tactility, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch would be the perfect choice for you. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps they offer make typing on them a satisfying and immersive experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing style, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be more suitable. With its lower actuation force, it provides a smoother and effortless typing experience. The crispy and clacky sound profile adds to the overall enjoyment. In terms of sound, the Box Jade produces a high-pitched and crunchy sound, while the Ink Red has a more neutral sound with a subtle chirp. As for feel, the Box Jade offers an accented and invigorating tactile feedback, while the Ink Red provides a silky and polished smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preference and typing style.
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