Kailh Box Jade vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Kailh Box Jade and the Gazzew LT are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Box Jade is perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. Its high-pitched and invigorating clicks, combined with the crunchy tactile bumps, create a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switches are known for their enticing lilac hue and offer an auditory symphony of deep and resonant "thockiness" with every keystroke. Their seamless glide provides a smooth and effortless typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities and appeal, allowing you to choose based on your personal preferences. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gazzew LT switches differ in terms of their sound profiles and hardness. The Box Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that allows for a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the LT uses a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While the Box Jade provides a crisper sound, the LT offers a more profound sound experience.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the Box Jade utilizes a nylon material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Gazzew LT also boasts a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, known as "boba plastic." This soft material contributes to a rich and deep sound profile, similar to what the nylon bottom housing of the Box Jade offers. Both switches incorporate bottom housings that elicit a fuller sound experience, although they may differ in terms of tone and resonance.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gazzew LT switches provide different qualities, they both play a crucial role in the overall typing experience. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing's qualities will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and the overall feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Thus, while the specific materials may vary, the importance of these housings in determining the sound and feel of the switches remains consistent.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, it is clear that the Box Jade requires a lighter touch. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the LT's actuation force is not provided. However, both switches have a medium level bottom out force, with the Box Jade at 60 grams and the LT at 65 grams, making it slightly heavier.
Considering weight is crucial as it can greatly impact typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Box Jade as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue, which is ideal for office use or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the LT with its heavier forces.
Unfortunately, without the specific information regarding the actuation force of the LT, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of actuation force. However, if the LT's actuation force is similar to the Box Jade, then users can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of desired touch sensitivity. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, it is clear that the Box Jade has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the LT has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Box Jade falls within the more traditional range of travel distances, while the LT is on the shallower side. For gamers looking for faster response times, the LT with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt, and for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the Box Jade with its longer travel distance would be a better option. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50, whereas the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50.
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 clicky switch produces a high-pitched and crunchy sound. The sharp and crisp clicks give a satisfying auditory experience, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch offers a deep and resonant thockiness. With a bassy and thocky sound profile, the LTs create a rich and immersive typing symphony. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Box Jade leans towards a higher pitch and crunchy sound, while the LT provides a deeper and more resonant tone.
Moving on to feel, the Box Jade switch is described as accented and invigorating. It offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, providing a medium tactile experience. This switch also offers a snappy and reactive feel, enhancing the typing sensation. Unfortunately, information about the feel of the Gazzew LT switch is unknown.
Based on the available information, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is best for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound and pronounced tactility. Its crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on these switches a delight. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch is ideal for those craving a deep and resonant thocky sound. While information about its feel is unavailable, we can expect a smooth and seamless glide with every keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you want a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and prominent tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be the perfect choice for you. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a deep, resonant thockiness and a seamless glide, the Gazzew LT switches are a great option. These switches offer an auditory symphony of thockiness and their lilac hue adds an enticing aesthetic appeal. Ultimately, the Box Jade switches are ideal for those who enjoy a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, while the LT switches provide a bassy and thocky sound. In terms of feel, the Box Jade switches offer an accented and invigorating typing experience, while there is no specific description for the feel of the LT switches. Overall, your choice between the Box Jade and the LT switches will depend on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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