Kailh Box Jade vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a variety of options available, each with their own unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out are the Kailh Box Jade, a clicky switch, and the Durock Medium Tactile, a tactile switch. The Box Jades are ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on them a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile offers a different flavor of tactility. With a pronounced yet balanced feel, this switch provides a jelly-like sound signature that is sure to please. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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
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 housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Durock Medium Tactile switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better illumination. Therefore, if you are looking for switches with similar sound characteristics and RGB compatibility, either the Box Jade or the Medium Tactile with their polycarbonate top housing would be suitable choices.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Box Jade incorporates nylon, while the Medium Tactile also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out the keys. Both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon in their bottom housings, enhancing the typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial and resonant sound.
It's important to note that the characteristics of the top and bottom housing materials have distinct impacts on the overall sound and feel of the switches. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are predominant, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, while the top housing materials may provide similar sound profiles, the differences in bottom housing materials can influence the overall typing experience and sound outcome.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Box Jade is 50 grams, while the Medium Tactile's actuation force is unavailable, making it unknown. Both switches fall into the medium range, which provides a balanced typing experience. However, in terms of the bottom out force, the Box Jade requires 60 grams of force, whereas the Medium Tactile demands 65 grams, making it slightly heavier.
Considering weight is essential when choosing a switch, as it can affect the typing experience and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Box Jade, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who use their keyboards extensively at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel may lean towards the Medium Tactile switch. With its heavier bottom out force, it can provide a satisfying tactile feedback.
Although the Box Jade's actuation force is 50 grams and the Medium Tactile's force remains unknown, it is safe to assume that they will produce similar results if both fall within the medium range. However, it is important to note the slight difference in their bottom out forces, with the Medium Tactile being slightly heavier at 65 grams compared to the Box Jade's 60 grams.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Durock Medium Tactile switch, it is evident that the Box Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Medium Tactile has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common. However, the shorter travel distance of the Box Jade may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial depth to their keystrokes might opt for the switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium 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 known for its high-pitched, crisp clicks. Pressing these switches produces a sharp and crisp sound, which is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a jelly-like sound signature, but specific details about its sound qualities are unknown. 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, both the Kailh Box Jade and Durock Medium Tactile switches are described as accented. This means that they offer a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They provide a satisfying tactile feedback without being scratchy or hypersensitive. Additionally, the Kailh Box Jade switch is considered invigorating, offering a snappy and reactive feel, while the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as stepped and mild. Stepped switches have a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation, while mild switches offer a more gentle typing experience. The Durock Medium Tactile switch is also polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience due to reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade switch and Durock Medium Tactile switch have their own distinct qualities. The Box Jade switch provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, crunchy clicks, and an invigorating feel. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch from Durock offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility, a jelly-like sound signature, a stepped feel with mild characteristics, and a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. If you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy feel, you'll find the Box Jade to be a great option. Alternatively, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a balanced tactility and a more mild typing experience, the Medium Tactile switch can provide similar results. Ultimately, choose the switch that best fits your preferred level of tactility and sound profile.
Conclusion
In summary, if you're looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and strong tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches are a fantastic choice. Their 60-gram bottom out force provides a satisfying level of resistance without being too heavy, and the crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on them a joy. These switches are particularly suited for those who enjoy a higher-pitched and crunchy sound when pressing keys. On the other hand, if you prefer a different flavor of tactility that is pronounced yet balanced, the Durock Medium Tactile switches are an excellent option. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, they offer a tactile feel that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The medium tactility of these switches, along with their unique jelly-like sound signature, provides an invigorating typing sensation. Additionally, the Durock Medium Tactile switches offer other variations such as stepped, mild, and polished, depending on your preferred feel and smoothness. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and priorities in terms of sound and feel.
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