Kailh Box Jade vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, you must consider your preferences and needs. The Box Jade offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and crunchy tactile bumps, making it ideal for those who enjoy a high-pitched and invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver stands out for its lightning-fast response due to its low spring resistance and linear action, making it perfect for gamers seeking maximum speed. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is evident that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, whether you are typing on the Box Jade or the MX Speed Silver, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Box Jade uses polycarbonate while the MX Speed Silver uses nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, which may appeal to those who prefer a more muted and rounded typing experience. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing feel of a switch.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Kailh Box Jade and the Cherry MX Speed Silver highlight how subtle variations can greatly impact the typing experience. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound profile, the choice between a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound or a nylon top housing for a fuller sound can cater to different preferences. Whether you prioritize a crisp sound profile or a rounder sound profile, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to various typing styles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Box Jade is the heavier option of the two. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 30 grams. However, the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unknown. The actuation force is crucial for triggering keystrokes efficiently, while the bottom out force measures the amount of pressure needed to fully press the key. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the MX Speed Silver would be the better choice, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Box Jade would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Box Jade has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the MX Speed Silver's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Box Jade may provide a slightly deeper key press experience for those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes, while the MX Speed Silver offers a slightly quicker actuation for those seeking a more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for key press depth and speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, producing sharp and crisp clicks with crunchy tactile bumps when typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, with a deep and satisfying thud upon keypress. When it comes to feel, the Box Jade provides an accented and invigorating typing experience, offering medium tactile feedback with a firm actuation force for an immersive sensation. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver is described as having a textured feel, potentially providing a different sensation compared to the Box Jade.
Overall, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switch would be a perfect choice. On the other hand, if rapid response and high speed are essential for your gaming needs, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch with its linear action and low spring resistance would be more suitable. Depending on your preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user needs. Ultimately, the decision between the Box Jade and the MX Speed Silver will depend on your personal preferences and intended use for the keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who enjoys a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switch would be an excellent choice for you. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on these switches a satisfying experience. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for maximum speed and instant response, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch would be more suitable for you. With its linear action and low spring resistance, it offers rapid key presses that can give you a competitive edge in fast-paced games. Ultimately, the decision between the Box Jade and MX Speed Silver switches will come down to your personal preferences and intended use for the keyboard. Make sure to consider factors such as typing style, gaming needs, and sound preferences when making your choice.
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