Kailh Box Jade vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Box Jade is ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, making it perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience with each keypress. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black offers a smooth and consistent linear feel without any audible feedback, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
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
Comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Black, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches using RGB lighting. The Box Jade and Dustproof Black both benefit from these qualities, providing a similar acoustic experience despite other differences in their design.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Box Jade utilizes a nylon material while the Dustproof Black also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the difference in top housing material, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a similar typing experience with its unique sound characteristics.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Kailh Box Jade and Outemu Dustproof Black switches brings a balance of clear, resonant sound from the top housing and deep, full sound from the bottom housing. While the switches may have slight variations in their sound profiles due to the nuances of their design, the overall typing experience is likely to be quite similar. Both switches offer a blend of stiffness and softness in their housing materials, creating a dynamic sound that typists may appreciate.
Weight
In comparing the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Jade has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Dustproof Black is heavier with an actuation force of 60 grams. This means that the Dustproof Black requires a bit more force to activate a key press. Similarly, the Box Jade has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Dustproof Black's heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This indicates that the Dustproof Black provides a more substantial typing experience with a harder bottom out feel. Ultimately, when choosing between the two switches, weight preference plays a significant role in the decision-making process. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may opt for the Box Jade, while individuals seeking a firmer typing feel may lean towards the Dustproof Black.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Jade. The Box Jade may provide a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, making it preferred by gamers looking for faster keystrokes. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black may offer a more substantial key press feel for those who prefer a deeper travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user.
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 Dustproof Black 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 offers a high-pitched and crunchy typing experience, producing sharp and crisp clicks that resemble the sound of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch's sound profile is unknown. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box Jade is known for offering an accented and invigorating typing experience. These switches provide a medium-heavy tactile feedback with a crisp tactile bump, creating a satisfying and immersive typing sensation. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is not specified.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy typing experience, a clicky sound profile, and crunchy tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a different sound and feel, the Outemu Dustproof Black might be worth considering. It is important to keep in mind personal preferences and factors such as typing style and usage when choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Box Jade is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force without the clicky sound, the Dustproof Black is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and needs.
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