Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron New North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron New North Pole V2. The Box Jade switch is well-known for providing a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and a satisfying level of tactility. Typing on these switches offers crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, making them a great choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch from Gateron offers a different experience. While it no longer features a rubber dampener like its predecessor, it delivers a crisper typing feel with its polished and creamy characteristics. The hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup, a frictionless typing feel, is maintained in the design of the V2, providing users with a seamless glide and smoothness that they have come to love. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Jade Clicky

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$5.50 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron New North Pole V2 share many similarities. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more clear and resonant sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and visually appealing effects. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either of these switches.

However, there is a notable difference in the bottom housing material between the two switches. The Kailh Box Jade features a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Gateron switch contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its polycarbonate top housing.

When it comes to the overall typing experience, the qualities brought by the different housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, which is the sensation when the key is fully pressed down. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when the key is released, resulting in a distinct sound profile as you lift your finger off the key. Therefore, while both switches share similarities in their top housing materials, the difference in bottom housing materials may result in variations in the typing experience, particularly in terms of the sound produced during key press and release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Both switches have a similar actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This means that users can expect a consistent and responsive typing experience when using either switch.

However, the bottom out force of the switches differs slightly. The Kailh Box Jade has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that when pressing the keys all the way down, the Gateron switch will require a slightly higher amount of force compared to the Kailh switch.

The weight of the switches is worth considering for various reasons. Some users prefer a lighter actuation and bottom out force as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This can be advantageous for those who use their keyboards for extended periods of time, such as in professional work environments or during long gaming sessions.

However, others prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These users might opt for switches with heavier forces to provide a satisfying tactile feedback when typing. It should be noted that both the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches fall into the medium weight category, which means they strike a balance between being light enough for extended use and heavy enough to provide a tangible response.

In summary, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have similar actuation forces but differ slightly in their bottom out forces. The Kailh switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Gateron switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding typing experience and the desired weight of keypresses.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the New North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the New North Pole V2 falls within the range of 4.0 mm, which is the most common and expected distance. On the other hand, the Box Jade offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, which can be advantageous in competitive gaming situations. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper, more substantial key press, the longer travel distance of the New North Pole V2 may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offers a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. The sharp and crisp sound produced by these switches is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Box Jade is reported to have an accented and invigorating tactile experience. It provides a medium level of tactility that offers noticeable feedback without being overwhelming or subtle. The typing sensation is described as immersive, with a snappy and reactive feel. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 is described as having a polished, creamy, and frictionless feel. These switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel, allowing for a fluid and seamless typing experience.

In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade provides a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile with an invigorating and accented tactile feel. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. While the sound profile of the New North Pole V2 is unknown, it can be expected to provide a smooth and frictionless feel similar to the creamy and frictionless description. It's important to consider personal preferences and prioritize the desired qualities when choosing between the two.

Conclusion

In summary, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound and distinct tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switch is the right choice for you. Its 60-gram bottom out force provides a satisfying resistance, and its crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more frictionless typing feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is the way to go. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 62.5 grams, it offers a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, while still providing the seamless glide and smoothness Gateron switches are known for. Neither switch has a defined sound profile for the New North Pole V2, but the Box Jade is described as high-pitched and crunchy in sound. In terms of feel, the Box Jade is accented and invigorating, offering a medium tactile experience with pronounced feedback and reactive feel. The New North Pole V2, on the other hand, is polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a sleek and smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Jade Clicky

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more