Kailh Box Jade vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the Kailh Box Jade, a clicky switch, and the KTT Kang White, a linear switch. The Box Jade is perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and pronounced tactile feedback. Its high-pitched and invigorating characteristics make every keystroke feel crisp and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Kang White switch offers a poppy linear typing experience with a dazzling sound that adds an extra layer of excitement to your typing sessions. Its low-pitched and neutral qualities provide a smoothness unrivaled by other switches, thanks to its self-lubricating material. Both switches have their strengths and unique features, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
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 KTT Kang White switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences when using either switch.
However, a key point of comparison between the two switches lies in their bottom housing material. The Box Jade features a nylon bottom housing, while the Kang White utilizes the same material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. Its softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, ultimately producing a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, the difference in bottom housing materials may result in a varying typing experience between the two switches, with the Box Jade offering a potentially more resounding sound compared to the Kang White.
Furthermore, the influence of the housing materials can be felt differently depending on the action of pressing down or letting go of a key. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, whereas the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while both switches may share similarities in their overall sound profile, the specific nuances and tactile feedback experienced during typing may differ due to the contrasting bottom housing materials.
In summary, the Kailh Box Jade and KTT Kang White switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharp and crisp sound profile, along with enhanced aesthetics for RGB lighting. However, the difference appears in their nylon bottom housing, with the Box Jade elicitng a potentially deeper and fuller sound due to its softer material. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may depend on personal preferences regarding typing experience and the significance of sound during keypresses or key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Kailh Box Jade has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, compared to the KTT Kang White's 45 grams. This means that the Kailh Box Jade will require a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Kailh Box Jade is again slightly heavier with 60 grams, while the Kang White has a bottom out force of 58 grams. So, both switches fall into the medium category, with the Kailh Box Jade being slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out force.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Kang White might be the preferred choice, as the actuation force and bottom out force are both lower compared to the Kailh Box Jade. This lighter weight can be beneficial for extended typing sessions, such as in a workplace or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Kailh Box Jade, as it requires a slightly heavier force for both actuation and bottoming out.
In conclusion, while the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch are relatively similar, there are slight differences in their weights. The KTT Kang White offers a lighter typing experience with lower forces, while the Kailh Box Jade provides a slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, personal preference and the desired typing experience will determine which switch is the ideal choice for an individual.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is slightly shorter than the more traditional 4.0 mm travel distance of the Kang White. The shorter travel distance of the Box Jade can be appealing to gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Kang White may provide a deeper and more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a greater sense of depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the Box Jade offering quicker responses, while the longer travel distance of the Kang White provides a more substantial feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50, whereas the KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99.
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 has a high-pitched sound profile with sharp and crisp clicks. It also has a crunchy sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The Kang White switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes and preferences. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Kailh Box Jade is known for its accented feel. This means that it provides a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The switch offers a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. This combination creates an invigorating typing sensation for users. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the KTT Kang White linear switch.
Considering the available information, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy typing experience, clicky sound profile, and crunchy tactile bumps, the Kailh Box Jade would be an excellent choice. It provides crisp clicks and an invigorating typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a smooth linear feel and a dazzling, low-pitched sound, the KTT Kang White might be more suitable for you. While we don't have information on the specific feel of the Kang White switch, it's important to note that overall keyboard preferences are subjective, so it's always recommended to try out different switches to find the one that suits your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is the perfect choice for you. With its crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, typing on these switches will provide a satisfying and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a beautiful typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, the KTT Kang White switch is an exquisite option. Its self-lubricating material ensures a smooth and seamless typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a higher-pitched and crunchy sound profile, the Box Jade is the way to go. However, if you prefer a lower-pitched and more neutral sound, the Kang White switch is the better choice. In terms of feel, the Box Jade offers an accented and invigorating typing experience, while the Kang White does not have any specific descriptors in this regard. Ultimately, your choice between the Box Jade and Kang White will depend on your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback.
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