Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Lunar Probe are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The Box Jade is perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. It offers crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, making it a satisfying choice for typists who enjoy auditory and tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its innovative dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses. Known for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, this switch provides a subtle sound signature for a quieter typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that appeal to different users, making them suitable for various preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Lunar Probe have some similarities in terms of using polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. However, the differences may lie in the design and construction of the top housing which could potentially affect the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Lunar Probe provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. This showcases how the choice of housing materials can influence not only the auditory experience but also the tactile feedback while typing on mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, while both switches share similarities in utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the specific design and construction of each housing material may result in slight variations in sound and feel. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the properties of each housing material and how they interact can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is clear that the Box Jade requires a slightly heavier touch than the Lunar Probe. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Lunar Probe has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Lunar Probe lighter in both categories. Some users may prefer the lighter touch of the Lunar Probe for extended typing periods or gaming sessions, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Box Jade with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, as is the travel distance of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch. Both switches offer the same amount of travel distance, meaning users can expect a consistent tactile experience in terms of keypress depth. Whether you prefer the clicky feel of the Box Jade or the smooth linear action of the Lunar Probe, you can be assured that the distance traveled when typing will be identical between the two switches. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will receive similar performance regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 clicky switch offers a high-pitched and crunchy typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp sound with each keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch provides a more subtle sound profile due to its smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Lunar Probe may be more suitable for you.
Moving on to feel, the Box Jade switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that is both noticeable and satisfying. This creates an immersive typing sensation with each keystroke. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe switch. Users who prefer a more tactile typing experience may lean towards the Box Jade for its pronounced feedback.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer stable and consistent keypresses with a smoother linear sensation and a quieter sound profile, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so carefully consider your typing style and sound preferences before making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, then the Kailh Box Jade switch would be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and smooth linear typing experience with stable and consistent keypresses, then the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound profile, ensuring that you have the best keyboard switch for your typing style.
Mentioned in this article
