Kailh Box Jade vs. Outemu Peach (V3)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Peach (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Peach. The Box Jade is known for its medium-heavy typing experience, clicky sound profile, and satisfying tactile feedback. With high-pitched clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, it offers an invigorating and lively typing experience that enthusiasts love. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach stands out for its lightweight and silent operation. Perfect for linear switch enthusiasts, these switches provide a feathery light typing experience that is both subtle and polished. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of these switches to help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
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
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
The Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Peach differ in terms of their housing materials. The Box Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Box Jade.
In terms of their bottom housing materials, both the Box Jade and the Outemu Peach use nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches offer a similar sound profile when it comes to their bottom housing.
When comparing the overall sound profile of the switches, the housing materials play a crucial role. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when the key is released. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Outemu Peach creates a deeper and fuller sound when the key is released. While the top and bottom housings differ between the switches, the qualities of each housing material are split accordingly. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when a key is released. Ultimately, these differences result in unique sound profiles for each switch, allowing users to choose based on their specific preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, it is clear that the actuation and bottom out forces differ. The Box Jade requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Outemu Peach requires 40 grams, making it lighter. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Box Jade is 60 grams, while the Outemu Peach has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Box Jade is slightly heavier than the Outemu Peach in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Outemu Peach, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for smoother and easier keystrokes. This could be particularly desirable for individuals who need to type for long periods of time, such as in a workplace or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users may prefer the Box Jade's heavier forces, as it provides a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. This can be advantageous for individuals who prefer a tactile and pronounced feedback when typing. Overall, choosing between these switches depends on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Jade has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Peach has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with the Box Jade switch, you will feel a slightly deeper travel compared to the Peach switch.
In terms of traditional travel distances, both switches fall within the acceptable range. The Box Jade is closer to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, while the Peach is on the shallower end with a 3.3 mm travel distance. However, it's worth noting that shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the Peach switch may be the better option for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with more depth and a smoother typing experience, the Box Jade switch with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. It's important to consider personal preference when choosing between these switches, as some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your specific typing or gaming needs and the level of depth and responsiveness you desire.
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 Peach (V3) comes in at $3.40.
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 switch has a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. The high-pitched sound produces a sharp and crisp noise when pressed, which is ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and lively auditory experience. The crunchiness, typically associated with clicky switches, creates a sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch offers a more neutral and muted sound. The neutral sound profile falls in the middle ground, suitable for various purposes and users, whether beginner or advanced, and can be used in both home and work environments. The muted characteristic of the Peach switch reduces the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, creating a softer and quieter sound. Ultimately, the sound produced by switches is also influenced by other factors like the selection of the keyboard board and keycaps.
When discussing feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch provides an accented and invigorating typing experience. The accented feel refers to a medium-tactile switch that offers a noticeable level of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. This provides a balanced and satisfying typing sensation that is neither too subtle nor too pronounced. Additionally, the invigorating nature of the Box Jade switch enhances the overall typing experience with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch offers a milder and more polished feel. The mild typing experience of the Peach switch offers a gentle and approachable feel that suits most users. The subtle resistance of the Peach switch, while not feather-light, still maintains a light typing feel. Moreover, the polished characteristic of the switch results in a smooth and refined finishing, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade and Outemu Peach switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade switch delivers a high-pitched and crunchy sound, accompanied by an accented and invigorating feel. This switch is suitable for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with noticeable clicks and tactile feedback. Conversely, the Outemu Peach switch produces a neutral and muted sound, providing a lighter and quieter typing experience. Its mild and polished feel allows for a gentle typing sensation with reduced noise. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preferences, as both provide enjoyable typing experiences with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be the perfect choice for you. Their 60 gram bottom out force provides a satisfying resistance, and their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps enhance the typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery light typing experience with a silent operation, the Outemu Peach switches are the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 50 grams and a silenced mechanism, these switches offer a lightweight and quiet typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Box Jade and Outemu Peach switches will depend on your preference for typing force, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Both switches have their unique qualities and will cater to different typing preferences. In the end, it's important to consider your personal preference and typing needs when choosing between these two switches.
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