Kailh Box Jade vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Cream Blue both offer a clicky typing experience, but with distinct characteristics. The Box Jade is ideal for those looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. Known for its crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, this switch is categorized as high-pitched, accented, invigorating, and crunchy. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch lacks any specific standout features but still provides a satisfying clicky feel. If you prefer a switch that is not as distinct in its characteristics, the Cream Blue may be the way to go. 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
Partial box
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
Both the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Cream Blue switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound clarity in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for users who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through the housing. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both switches feature a nylon construction, offering a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. While the bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing material influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Overall, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile, despite the differences in the top housing materials.
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Cream Blue switches, it is clear that both switches offer distinct sound profiles influenced by their respective housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade provides a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those seeking a clear and resonant typing experience with RGB lighting capabilities. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more subdued and rounder typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches share a nylon bottom housing that absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing on either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound characteristics and aesthetic considerations such as RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally light in terms of initiating a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Jade has a slightly lighter 60 grams compared to the Cream Blue's heavier 65 grams. This means that the Outemu Cream Blue switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Kailh Box Jade switch allows for a lighter touch, suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and whether a lighter or heavier force is desired.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cream Blue has a longer travel distance compared to the Box Jade. A 0.4 mm may seem like a small difference, but it can affect the feel and response of the switch. Some users may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box Jade for quicker response times, particularly for gaming. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Cream Blue may provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific use case.
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 Cream Blue 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
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp click when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown. When it comes to feel, the Box Jade offers an accented and invigorating typing experience, with a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. The feel of the Cream Blue switch is unknown. Overall, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound and prominent tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you are looking for similar qualities without specific information on the Cream Blue switch, opting for the Box Jade would likely give you a satisfying typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycap setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, the Box Jade is perfect for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a unique high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, the Cream Blue may be the better choice. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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