Kailh Box Jade vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Lotus offer unique typing experiences. The Box Jade is a clicky switch with a medium-heavy typing feel, producing a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Lotus is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience without any audible feedback. If you prefer a high-pitched, accented, invigorating, and crunchy typing experience, the Box Jade is the way to go. However, if you prefer a quieter, more linear typing feel without any extra accents, the Lotus might be more your style. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Lotus switches both feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The transparency of polycarbonate also allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it aesthetically pleasing for those looking to customize their keyboards.
In terms of sound production, the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Lotus switches offer contrasting characteristics due to their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade creates a clear and resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the Lotus elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The differences in sound profile can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate versus the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences depending on the preference for a sharper or rounder sound.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Lotus switches depends on individual preferences for sound and aesthetics. While the Box Jade offers a crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Lotus provides a deeper sound with its nylon top housing. Both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. Ultimately, users seeking a keyboard switch with a specific sound profile or compatibility with RGB lighting may find the housing materials of these switches to be a deciding factor in their choice.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch differ significantly. The Box Jade has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In comparison, the Lotus has a lower actuation force of 35 grams and a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a lighter typing experience. The Box Jade would be more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Lotus would be favored by those who like a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer unique advantages based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users who prioritize fast response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the quicker actuation of keys provided by these switches. However, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Box Jade to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Lotus 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, providing a sharp and crisp clicking noise reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, there is no available information on the sound profile of the Outemu Lotus linear switch. 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.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box Jade offers an accented tactile experience that is not too light or too heavy, providing a medium level of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. Described as invigorating, these switches offer a firm actuation force, reactive feel, and pronounced feedback, resulting in an immersive typing sensation. However, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch stands out for its medium-heavy typing experience, clicky sound profile, and crunchy tactile bumps, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Lotus linear switch is limited. If you are looking for a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel to the Kailh Box Jade, it is recommended to seek out linear switches with similar characteristics for a comparable result.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches are the way to go. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing a satisfying experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a linear switch without any tactile bump, the Outemu Lotus switches with a bottom out force of 50 grams would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for key feel and sound profile. Make your decision based on whether you prioritize the medium-heavy tactile experience of the Box Jade or the lighter linear feel of the Lotus.
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