Kailh Box Jade vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch to the TTC Iron linear switch, it's clear that they offer unique typing experiences. The Box Jade is perfect for those who enjoy a medium-heavy typing feel with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, while the Iron offers a lighter touch with a pronounced clacky sound signature. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that may cater to different preferences - the Box Jade for a more tactile and audible typing experience, and the Iron for a smoother and quieter typing experience. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Iron, it is clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their top housing materials. The Box Jade's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Iron's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles reflects the differences in stiffness between polycarbonate and POM plastics, with polycarbonate providing a more resonant and clear sound compared to POM's softer and more absorbent quality.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both switches also showcase distinct sound profiles based on their respective materials. The Box Jade's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Iron's POM bottom housing contributes to a deep and muted sound profile, aligning with the qualities of POM plastic. Despite the difference in materials used for the bottom housings, both switches share an emphasis on creating a pleasing sound experience with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
When considering the impact of both top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a key press, it is important to note how these qualities are distributed across the switch. The Box Jade and the Iron showcase a division of qualities between their top and bottom housings, with the bottom housing primarily influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when a key is released. This division highlights the importance of choosing housing materials that complement each other to achieve the desired sound profile and typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, it is clear that the Box Jade requires a heavier force for both actuation and bottom out compared to the Iron switch. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Iron switch has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Box Jade provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Iron switch make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their weight, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Iron has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Jade. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Box Jade being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Box Jade for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Iron with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 clicky switch is characterized by its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, resulting in sharp and crisp clicks with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound that adds to the overall typing experience. If you prefer a more high-pitched and crunchy sound, the Box Jade would be the ideal choice, whereas the Iron switch offers a more clacky and percussive sound.
Considering the feel, the Box Jade switch is described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet offers a satisfying typing sensation. In contrast, the TTC Iron switch is recognized for being easy-to-press and mild, offering a gentle resistance during key presses and a more approachable typing experience for most users. If you enjoy a switch that provides a moderate amount of tactility with a snappy and reactive feel, the Box Jade would be a great option. However, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more subtle typing experience, the Iron switch may be more suitable for your preferences.
Overall, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the TTC Iron linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Box Jade delivers a medium-heavy typing experience with crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, while the Iron switch ensures swift and fatigue-free typing sessions with its clacky sound and buttery smooth travel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience, both switches provide unique qualities that will enhance your overall enjoyment of using a mechanical keyboard. If you are looking for similar results in terms of sound or feel, selecting a switch with comparable characteristics to your preferred switch will help achieve a similar typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch or the TTC Iron linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, the Box Jade is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force with a pronounced clacky sound and buttery smooth travel, the Iron switch would be more up your alley. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what you value most in a switch before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
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