Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade, a clicky switch, and the Gateron Mountain Top, a linear switch. The Box Jade is ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and crisp tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switches are designed for discreet office environments, offering a quiet yet responsive typing experience with a light actuation force. While the Box Jade provides a high-pitched and invigorating feel, the Mountain Top is more subtle and neutral in sound and feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Mountain Top switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound production. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness which enhances resonance. In comparison, the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder tone. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade is more likely to be used in switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic element to the typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Box Jade and Mountain Top switches use nylon. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound production when it comes to the bottom housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound overall, enhancing the tactile feedback during typing. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, with each part of the switch playing a role in the overall sound profile and feel of the key press.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches like the Kailh Box Jade and Gateron Mountain Top can significantly impact the typing experience. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile with enhanced clarity, the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top creates a deeper and fuller sound with a rounder tone. On the other hand, both switches share nylon bottom housings that contribute to a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience, where the characteristics of each material come together to create a unique and customizable sound and feel for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in weight between the two. The Box Jade has a slightly higher actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Mountain Top's 40 grams, making the Box Jade the heavier option for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Additionally, the Box Jade also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, compared to the Mountain Top's 50 grams, further solidifying its position as the heavier option. This means that the Box Jade will provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a keyboard with a heavier weight. On the other hand, the Mountain Top's lighter actuation and bottom out force make it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much finger fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Box Jade offering a heavier option and the Mountain Top providing a lighter alternative.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for faster response times, especially among gamers. The Box Jade's slightly longer travel distance may provide a bit more depth compared to the Mountain Top, which could feel more abrupt to some users. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, so you can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness when typing or gaming with either 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 Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Jade switch offers a high-pitched and crunchy auditory experience, characterized by sharp clicks and a crisp sound profile that is reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch provides a more neutral sound, with a moderate actuation force requirement that results in a subdued yet comfortable typing experience suitable for professional environments. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Box Jade delivering a more vibrant and pronounced sound compared to the Mountain Top's understated profile.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that is engaging without being overly aggressive. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, with a gentle resistance that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Box Jade switch leans towards a more pronounced and reactive typing sensation, while the Mountain Top switch focuses on providing a comfortable and effortless typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile qualities that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade switch excels in delivering a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile coupled with an accented and invigorating typing feel, making it a great choice for individuals seeking a tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch stands out for its neutral sound signature and bouncy, easy-to-press feel, making it ideal for those who prioritize a quiet and comfortable typing experience in professional settings. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a more vibrant and tactile typing experience (Box Jade) or a subdued and effortless typing experience (Mountain Top).
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch or the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing needs. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Box Jade would be a great choice for you. Alternatively, if you require a quiet and light actuation switch for professional environments, the Mountain Top would suit your needs perfectly. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which aligns best with your preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and environments, so make your decision based on what will enhance your overall typing experience the most.
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