Kailh Box Jade vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When contemplating between the Kailh Box Jade and the Keygeek Raw mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately boils down to a preference for clicky and tactile typing experiences or a smoother, more lightweight feel. The Box Jades are ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience accompanied by crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, creating an invigorating sound profile. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switches stand out for their unique material blend, offering a delightfully creamy and lightweight typing experience with a slightly textured feel right out of the box. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Box Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switches feature a Nylon & UPE blend top housing, creating a different sound profile that is exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Box Jade uses nylon which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In comparison, the Keygeek Raw switches utilize a UMPE & Si blend bottom housing, which again creates a unique sound profile exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. The qualities of each housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when pressed down or released.
While the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches differ, they both provide unique characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The choice between a polycarbonate top housing with a nylon bottom housing in the Box Jade or a Nylon & UPE blend top housing with a UMPE & Si blend bottom housing in the Keygeek Raw ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with the Box Jade or a deeper, fuller sound profile with the Keygeek Raw, both switches offer a quality typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Weight
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch has a heavier bottom out force of 57.5 grams compared to the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch's bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force category, but the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switch provides a slightly stronger push feel when bottoming out. When it comes to weight preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Kailh Box Jade switch, while those who enjoy a more robust typing feel may opt for the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is slightly longer than the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Despite the slight difference in distance, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for their fast response times. The Box Jade may provide a slightly deeper keypress feel compared to the Raw linear switch, which could be beneficial for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Jade switch offers a high-pitched and crunchy experience, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp sound with each key press. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switch provides a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, giving typists a medium tactile experience that is satisfying and immersive. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw switch offers a textured and mild typing sensation, with a gentle resistance and a subtle feel that is approachable to most users. Each switch provides a unique typing experience based on personal preference.
Overall, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch with a creamy yet lightweight feel, the Keygeek Raw switch may be more suitable, especially for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing their switches. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on your desired sound and feel for an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Box Jade switches are perfect for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight yet creamy typing experience with a slightly textured feel, the Keygeek Raw switches are a great option. Both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what kind of typing experience you are looking for.
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