Kailh Box Jade vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may want to consider the Kailh Box Jade and the SP-Star Meteor Orange. The Box Jade switch offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and noticeable tactile bumps. It is perfect for those who prefer an invigorating and high-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch provides a gentle and soft tactility with a neutral sound profile. It is best suited for individuals who prefer a more mild and polished typing experience. However, let's dive in deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, one notable difference is found in their top housings. The Box Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade provides a clear and vibrant appearance, while the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange adds a classic touch.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Box Jade and the Meteor Orange share the use of nylon. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, in terms of sound experience, the Box Jade and the Meteor Orange offer similar results due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is influenced by the bottom housing of these switches, providing a consistent typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade and the SP-Star Meteor Orange housing materials depends on personal preferences for sound profile and aesthetics. Polycarbonate in the Box Jade's top housing offers a sharp and resounding sound with the added bonus of translucency for RGB lighting effects. Conversely, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange provides a deeper and fuller sound, contributing to a classic typing experience. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a consistent sound when bottoming out keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both of which are considered medium. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Meteor Orange switch is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly. However, the bottom out force of the Meteor Orange is 57 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Box Jade.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This can be particularly beneficial for those who use their keyboard extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. However, others may prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may appreciate switches with heavier forces to provide a stronger push feel.
In terms of actuation and bottom out forces, the Box Jade and Meteor Orange switches offer comparable results, as both fall within the medium weight category. While the exact actuation force for the Meteor Orange switch is unavailable, the fact that its bottom out force is lighter suggests that it may have a slightly lighter actuation force as well. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience one desires.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a different travel experience for users. The Meteor Orange switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more pronounced keystroke. This can provide a sense of satisfaction and a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Box Jade offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a favorable choice for gamers or individuals looking for quicker response times. The shorter distance allows for faster keystrokes and can improve overall typing or gaming speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 is known for its high-pitched and crunchy characteristics. It produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This switch is ideal if you enjoy a more rich and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile. It has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a deep, satisfying sound when pressed and released. This can be described as a thocky sound, resembling a soft "knock" or deep "thud". It provides a more gentle and subtle typing experience compared to the Box Jade.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is characterized as accented and invigorating. It offers a medium level of tactility, providing a prominent amount of feedback without being overwhelming or too subtle. The actuation force is moderate to firm, resulting in a snappy and reactive feel that immerses you in your typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a mild and polished feel. It offers a gentle typing experience with qualities that stand in a safe middle-ground zone. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is best suited for those who prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a high-pitched and crunchy sound. It offers pronounced feedback, a snappy feel, and a moderate to firm actuation force. If you enjoy an invigorating typing sensation, this switch is the way to go. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is perfect for individuals who prefer a more gentle and approachable typing experience. It offers a neutral sound profile with a deep and satisfying thocky sound when pressed and released. The switch has a mild tactile feel and a polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. While their subjective qualities differ, both switches excel in their respective categories and will provide satisfying results for users seeking similar experiences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and prominent tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be the ideal choice for you. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps provide an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a smooth key travel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches would be perfect. Their soft and seductive tactility, combined with a polished finish, create a sleek and approachable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your preference for typing experience, sound, and feel.
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