Kailh Box Jade vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Cream Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences to consider. The Box Jade is perfect for those who prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on them a joy. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow offers a tactile typing experience without the audible click, providing a smoother and quieter keystroke. While the Box Jade is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy', the Cream Yellow lacks specific categorization. Both switches have their unique advantages, so choosing between them will depend on your personal preferences. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Box Jade's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its relatively stiff plastic composition. In comparison, the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. These differences in top housing materials result in contrasting auditory experiences for users, with the Box Jade emphasizing clarity and resonance, while the Cream Yellow prioritizes a rounder and duller sound.
Both the Box Jade and the Cream Yellow switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This similarity in bottom housing materials means that users can expect a consistent tactile experience across both switches when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon material's ability to absorb sound compared to harder plastics results in a more muted and rounded sound signature, enhancing the typing experience for those looking for a quieter and more tactile switch option.
Overall, while the Box Jade and the Cream Yellow switches share a common nylon bottom housing material, the differences in their top housings ultimately lead to distinct typing experiences. The use of polycarbonate in the Box Jade's top housing delivers a crisper and more resonant sound profile, perfect for those seeking a sharper tactile feedback. In contrast, the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, ideal for users looking for a more mellow typing experience. Whether users prioritize clarity and resonance or a deeper sound profile, both switches provide unique options tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equal in that aspect. The Box Jade provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Cream Yellow, which may be preferred by some users for a more substantial feel. Despite the difference in actuation force, both switches offer a medium weight that is suitable for a variety of typing preferences. Whether opting for a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier push feel for a more pronounced typing experience, both the Box Jade and Cream Yellow switches offer a balance between actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a solid tactile typing experience with comparable force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is 3.3 mm. In this case, the Box Jade has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box Jade being on the longer side and the Cream Yellow being slightly shorter. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the Cream Yellow, while those who prefer a more substantial keystroke may opt for the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Box Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Yellow 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 known for its high-pitched and crunchy characteristics, producing sharp and crisp clicks that resemble the sound of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. This sound profile is ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch does not have a specific sound description available, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Box Jade switch is highlighted for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback. This means that the switch provides a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming, yet still offers a satisfying and responsive typing sensation. In contrast, the feel of the Cream Yellow switch is unknown, but it is safe to assume that it may offer a different tactile experience compared to the Box Jade.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is a great option for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and crunchy tactile bumps. Its high-pitched sound and invigorating tactile feedback make it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the specific sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch are not available, it is important to consider individual preferences and factors such as keycaps and keyboard layout when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, and experimenting with different switches can help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and crunchy tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be perfect for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-bottom out force with a tactile bump but without the clicky sound, the Outemu Cream Yellow switches would be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound and feel while typing. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose wisely based on what suits your typing style best. Happy typing!
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