Kailh Box Jade vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Red. The Box Jade switch is a clicky switch that offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a distinctive clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on them an invigorating experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red switch is a linear switch with a quiet and smooth keystroke, making it perfect for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. While the Box Jade is best for those who enjoy a high-pitched and accented typing experience, the Dustproof Red provides a quiet and smooth 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
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
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
The Kailh Box Jade and Outemu Dustproof Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic material. This quality makes them ideal for users looking for a clear and resonant sound when typing on their keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes these switches suitable for RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the keyboard.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Box Jade and Dustproof Red switches are made of nylon, a softer plastic that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. This difference in housing material between the top and bottom contributes to the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
While both switches feature similar housing materials in their respective top and bottom components, the nuances in sound and feel may vary slightly between the Kailh Box Jade and Outemu Dustproof Red due to any subtle differences in manufacturing or design. Ultimately, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sharpness, pitch, and overall sound profile when using either of these switches, with the choice between them potentially coming down to personal preference or specific gaming or typing needs.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, we find that both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equal in that aspect. However, the Box Jade has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's 45 grams. This means that the Box Jade may feel slightly heavier to press down initially than the Dustproof Red. Users who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Red due to its lower actuation force, which can contribute to easier typing over longer periods of time. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force of the Box Jade. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Box Jade the shorter of the two switches. The Box Jade's 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shorter than the more traditional 4.0 mm distance of the Dustproof Red. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box Jade for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Dustproof Red with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to individual preference on which one to choose.
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 Red 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 sound profile, which produces sharp and crisp clicks that are reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch does not have any specific sound characteristics mentioned, so it may not provide the same satisfying auditory experience as the Box Jade. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Box Jade switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience with its medium-heavy actuation force and pronounced tactile feedback. This means that users can expect a satisfyingly tactile and responsive feel when typing on these switches. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is not specified, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of tactility and feedback.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch stands out for its crisp clicks, medium-heavy typing experience, and invigorating tactile feedback, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile and clicky typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch may not provide the same level of satisfaction in terms of sound and feel, as these qualities are not explicitly described. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel when typing. If you are looking for a similar typing experience to the Box Jade, it is recommended to explore other switches with similar sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Box Jade switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and linear typing experience without any tactile feedback or audible clicks, the Dustproof Red switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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