Kailh Box Jade vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Mint. While both switches offer unique characteristics, they cater to different preferences. The Box Jade is 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 of the Box Jade make it a favorite among enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Mint provides a smooth and linear typing experience, thanks to its long pole stem. Typing on the Mint offers a poppy thockiness, giving a light and fleeting type feel. It is the perfect choice for those who prefer a low-pitched and neutral switch with a polished touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific needs and desires.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and KTT Mint share similar housing materials, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light transmission. Therefore, whether you choose the Box Jade or the Mint, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound and visual aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon material. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, there is a slight difference in the sound produced due to the relative softness of nylon. The Box Jade's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Mint's nylon bottom housing also absorbs sound, but the overall effect may be slightly different compared to the Box Jade. Nonetheless, the use of nylon in both switches ensures a more satisfying typing experience with their enhanced sound profiles.
It is important to note that when a switch has different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities of each material are divided between the two parts. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more noticeable, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. So, while both the Kailh Box Jade and KTT Mint share commonalities in their housing materials, the slight variations in their top and bottom housings will create slight nuances in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Box Jade has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams, while the Mint has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Mint may require a slightly lighter touch to register a keystroke compared to the Box Jade. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Jade has a heavier force of 60 grams, whereas the Mint has a lighter force of 53 grams. This indicates that the Box Jade will require a bit more force to fully press down compared to the Mint.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Mint as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. This can be advantageous for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Box Jade due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
It is worth noting that although the forces of the Box Jade and the Mint differ slightly, both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range. Therefore, for individuals seeking a similar typing experience but with subtle variations in force, either switch can provide satisfactory results.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is evident that one is shorter than the other. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mint has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is considered the norm, whereas 3.0 mm is seen as more shallow. In recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity among gamers who value faster response times. Therefore, if a more responsive typing experience is of utmost importance to you, opting for the Box Jade with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, it's important to note that for some individuals, shorter travel distances may feel too abrupt and lack the satisfying depth they desire. In such cases, choosing the Mint with its longer travel distance could provide the desired hearty typing experience. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and the level of responsiveness or depth one seeks in a switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50, whereas the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91.
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
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. Pressing these switches produces a sharp and crisp sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings.
In terms of feel, the Box Jade switch is described as accented and invigorating. It provides a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. Typing on these switches offers pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy, reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. It has a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics and offers a smooth and refined finish. The reduced friction and smooth key travel contribute to a sleek typing experience.
Considering the available information, choosing between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Mint linear switch depends on personal preferences and typing requirements. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and crunchy tactile bumps, the Box Jade switch is a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a satisfyingly smooth linear switch with a light and fleeting typing feel, the Mint switch would be recommended. It is essential to note that the sound and feel of switches are also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, individual experimentation and customization may be necessary to achieve the desired results.
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 switch is perfect for you. Its 60-gram bottom out force provides a satisfying amount of resistance, and the crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps enhance the typing experience. The high-pitched and crunchy sound produced by the Box Jade switch adds an extra level of satisfaction to your typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and light linear switch, the KTT Mint is an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a medium-light typing experience. The long pole stem of the Mint switch provides a poppy thockiness, which adds to the overall smoothness and satisfaction of typing. The low-pitched and neutral sound profile of the Mint switch creates a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
In terms of feel, the Box Jade switch is accented and invigorating, offering a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. This creates an immersive typing sensation, perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the Mint switch provides a mild and polished feel. It offers a gentle typing experience in a safe, middle-ground zone, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Mint linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a medium-heavy, clicky typing experience with pronounced tactility, the Box Jade switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a smooth and light linear switch with a mellow sound profile, the Mint switch is a great choice. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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