Kailh Box Jade vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Blue Jade are both clicky switches that offer a satisfying typing experience. The Box Jades are perfect for those who prefer a medium-heavy typing feel with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on them a joy for those who enjoy an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jades offer a similar clicky feel but with a lighter touch. They are ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience without sacrificing the satisfying click sound. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Blue Jade both have unique characteristics when it comes to their housing materials. The Box Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is also translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Blue Jade uses a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound due to its softer nature. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Blue Jade utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a duller and rounder sound. While the top and bottom housings of a switch may have different materials, they work together to impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when a key is released.
Overall, both the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Blue Jade offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The stiff polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade produces a sharper, crisper sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Blue Jade creates a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite their differences in housing materials, both switches provide distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, the actuation force is the same at 50 grams. However, the bottom out force differs slightly, with the Box Jade requiring 60 grams and the Blue Jade needing 65 grams. The Box Jade can be considered lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Blue Jade provides a heavier feel, which some users may appreciate for a more robust typing experience. Both switches offer a satisfying clicky feedback, so users can expect similar results in terms of tactile response and auditory feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch. This means that the Box Jade offers a slightly quicker key press compared to the Blue Jade. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Box Jade due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press with a greater depth may favor the Blue Jade. Both switches provide a satisfying clicky feel, but the slight difference in travel distance may influence the overall typing experience for individuals with specific preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50, whereas the Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is characterized by its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp clicking noise that is reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown. Depending on other factors such as your keyboard and keycaps choices, you can expect to hear similar crisp clicks from both switches, but with potential variations in tone and volume.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force and noticeable tactile feedback. Users can enjoy a tactile bump that strikes a balance between being noticeable without being overwhelming, creating an immersive typing sensation. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is not described. However, if the key design features of the Blue Jade are similar to the Box Jade, you can anticipate a comparable typing experience with distinctive tactile feedback and a satisfying actuation force.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a clicky sound profile and medium-heavy tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is a solid choice. With its crisp clicks and invigorating typing feel, it provides an enjoyable and responsive typing experience. Although information regarding the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound and feel qualities is limited, based on common characteristics of other clicky switches, you can expect a similar level of clickiness and tactile feedback. Ultimately, your decision may come down to personal preference and any additional features each switch offers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a crisp clicky sound profile and crunchy tactile bumps, the Kailh Box Jades are the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, but do not have specific preferences for sound and feel, the Outemu Blue Jades could be a great option. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best suits your needs for an enjoyable typing experience.
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