Kailh Box Jade vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Orange. The Box Jades are perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on them a pleasure. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches offer a different experience with a bouncy type feel. Their polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and vivid orange nylon bottom housing create a slick, frictionless typing experience. These switches provide a low-pitched sound profile, and their excellent factory-lubing ensures refined, fluid key travel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Orange both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making them suitable choices for those looking for a satisfying auditory experience while typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for users planning to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboards. Thus, both switches offer similar sound characteristics and aesthetic options due to their polycarbonate top housings.
However, the housing materials differ when it comes to the bottom housings. The Box Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers an entirely different sound profile compared to the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's softer plastic nature, which allows it to absorb more sound. As a result, the Box Jade creates a duller and rounder sound when bottoming-out keys, providing a different typing experience compared to the Orange's crisper sound profile.
When using either switch, it's important to consider the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material, whether it's nylon or polycarbonate, greatly influences the sound and feel when pressing down on a key. The qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced during bottom-out. On the other hand, the top housing material, which is polycarbonate for both switches, plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the differences in the top and bottom housings of the Box Jade and Orange contribute to distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback depending on the point of contact with the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are notable differences and similarities. In terms of weight, the Box Jade is a slightly heavier option. While both switches fall into the medium category, the Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it slightly lighter overall.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Orange switch would be a suitable choice. This lighter force requirement allows for extended periods of typing without experiencing fatigue, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial and pronounced push during typing may find the Box Jade more to their liking. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying tactile feedback and create a more robust typing experience.
While the forces required for actuation and bottoming out differ between the Box Jade and Orange switches, their similarities lie in the medium range. This means that both switches offer a comfortable and balanced typing experience, falling neither on the extreme light nor heavy end of the spectrum. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier feel, both switches provide reliable keystrokes without compromising usability.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience. Whether opting for a heavier or lighter actuation and bottom out force, both switches are designed to meet the needs of keyboard enthusiasts with their distinctive characteristics and qualities.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become more prevalent in recent years. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize a quicker and more responsive typing experience, the slightly shorter travel distance of the Orange switch may be the better option for you. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press, then the Box Jade clicky switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be the more suitable choice. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is quite minimal, so you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels when pressed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Jade switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce sharp and crisp clicks, similar to the sound of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch has a low-pitched sound profile. With a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Orange switches provide a smooth and low-pitched sound when typing. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is described as accented and invigorating. These switches offer a medium-level of tactility, providing a prominent amount of feedback without being overwhelming or subtle. With their pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and snappy feel, typing on Box Jade switches creates an immersive and satisfying sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch is characterized as bouncy and frictionless. The keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback, giving them a lively feel and providing a rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Orange switches offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys, thanks to the factory-lubing and its design.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade and KTT Orange switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Box Jade switches provide a medium-heavy typing experience with crisp clicks, crunchy tactile bumps, and an accented, invigorating feel. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches offer a bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, a slick and frictionless feel, and excellent factory-lubing for smooth key travel. While both switches offer unique qualities, they cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's preference for typing experience, sound profile, and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, to sum up the comparison between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility, the Box Jade is the ideal choice for you. Its high-pitched and crunchy sound, along with its accented and invigorating feel, make typing on it a satisfying and immersive experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a bouncy, frictionless feel, the Orange is the switch for you. Its low-pitched sound and bouncy, frictionless feel provide a smooth and effortless typing experience. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics and advantages, so it ultimately depends on your personal preferences when choosing between them.
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