Kailh Box Jade vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a myriad of options available to suit various preferences and typing styles. Two popular switches that offer distinct experiences are the Kailh Box Jade, a clicky switch, and the Durock Light Tactile, a tactile switch. The Box Jade is perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and a satisfying level of tactility. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps it offers make typing on it a delight. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock provides a more gentle and subtle tactility, which serves as a pleasant contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Its angelic tactility and jelly-like sound signature make typing on this switch a serene experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Durock Light Tactile both use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in similar characteristics for both switches. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches using RGB lighting. So, if you are looking for a switch with a clear housing and plan to use RGB lighting, both the Box Jade and the Light Tactile would provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic.
Where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Box Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Light Tactile also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, when typing on the Box Jade or the Light Tactile, the bottom housing will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a deeper and fuller typing experience.
In summary, both the Kailh Box Jade and the Durock Light Tactile share similar characteristics in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. They both offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making them suitable for switches with clear housings and RGB lighting. However, the switches differ in their choice of bottom housing materials. The Box Jade's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing provides a similar sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Box Jade has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Light Tactile's 52 grams. Both switches have a medium category of actuation force, ensuring a satisfying keystroke without being too light or too heavy. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Box Jade has a lighter weight of 60 grams, while the Light Tactile requires a heavier force of 67 grams, falling into the medium-heavy category. This means that the Box Jade provides a slightly lighter overall typing experience, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing. In contrast, the Light Tactile offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. So, for those who prefer a lighter switch, the Box Jade would be a suitable choice, while those seeking a heavier and more substantial feel can opt for the Light Tactile. Overall, both switches provide reliable actuation and bottom out forces, offering a pleasant typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of comparison, the Box Jade has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Light Tactile. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Box Jade switch, you will feel a 3.6 mm travel distance, while with the Light Tactile switch, the travel distance is slightly longer at 4 mm.
In general, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while a distance of 3.0 mm is considered the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become more prevalent, especially among gamers who seek faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, opting for the switch with the shorter travel distance, in this case the Box Jade, would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance like the Light Tactile for a more satisfying depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and desired typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 is high-pitched and produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, giving it a distinctive and energetic character. It has a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound profile that suits most purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and can be used at home or work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is described as accented, meaning it provides a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It offers an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience. It falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, offering a more approachable feel for most users. Additionally, the Durock Light Tactile switch is polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek typing experience.
Considering the available information, the Kailh Box Jade switch is a great choice if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and a crunchy tactile feel. It offers sharp and crisp clicks, along with a prominent amount of tactility that is invigorating and immersive. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a more gentle and mild tactility with a jelly-like sound signature. It provides a smooth and refined typing experience with its polished finish. Both switches have their unique qualities, so choosing between them depends on individual preferences for sound and feel. However, if you prefer a similar typing experience to the Kailh Box Jade switch but with a more neutral sound and a gentle tactile feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch is a good alternative.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches are perfect for you. Their medium bottom out force of 60 grams provides a satisfying amount of resistance while typing. You'll love the crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps that these switches offer. Additionally, if you prefer high-pitched and crunchy sound profiles, the Box Jade switches are an excellent choice for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer a gentler and more angelic tactility, the Durock Light Tactile switches are a great option. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, they still fall into the medium range. These switches provide a softer and jelly-like sound signature, creating a pleasant typing experience. The Light Tactile switches are perfect for those who prefer a more neutral sound and feel profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switches and the Durock Light Tactile switches depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a medium-heavy clicky experience with sharp and crisp sounds, go for the Box Jade switches. However, if you prefer a gentler and more relaxed typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Light Tactile switches are for you. Remember to consider factors such as key feel, sound, and actuation force when making your decision.
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