Kailh Box Jade vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Silent White mechanical keyboard switches, we see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Box Jade is ideal for those who desire a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps of the Box Jade make typing a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White offers a smooth and quiet linear typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more discreet 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
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
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 main difference between the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Silent White switches lies in the bottom housing material. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Box Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. The nylon material in the Box Jade contributes to a more rounded and duller sound, contrasting with the clear and resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Silent White switch also features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a similar sharp and higher-pitched sound profile, but it pairs this with a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound as well.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, both switches benefit from the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing, especially when paired with RGB lighting for a visually striking effect. The combination of the polycarbonate top housing with either the nylon or polycarbonate bottom housing in these switches offers a unique blend of sound profiles, catering to different preferences in typing experience. While the Switch Jade emphasizes a sharper sound with the polycarbonate top housing and a deeper sound with the nylon bottom housing, the Outemu Silent White aims to strike a balance between the two by utilizing both housing materials to achieve a versatile sound profile that is both clear and resonant yet deep and full.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Silent White switches will depend on individual preferences for typing sound and feel. The Box Jade offers a more distinct contrast between the sharpness of the polycarbonate top housing and the depth of the nylon bottom housing, resulting in a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent White offers a balanced sound profile by incorporating both housing materials in different parts of the switch. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch, providing users with a variety of options to customize their typing experience.
Weight
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Silent White linear switch's 45 grams, making the Silent White the lighter of the two. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. This means that while the Silent White may feel lighter to press initially, both switches will require the same amount of force to fully press down. Those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions may opt for the Silent White switch, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance for a solid typing experience may lean towards the Box Jade switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent White has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Silent White provides a slightly quicker key press compared to the Box Jade. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are favored by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the feel of the key press - whether you prefer a quicker response or a more deliberate keystroke.
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 Silent White 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. These switches produce sharp and crisp clicks, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Silent White linear switch. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Box Jade switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience. These switches provide a medium-heavy typing feel with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. The tactile bumps are described as crunchy and satisfying. Meanwhile, there is no provided information about the feel of the Outemu Silent White switch.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy typing experience, crisp clicks, and crunchy tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience or are unsure about the feel of the Outemu Silent White switch, it may be best to try them out firsthand to see which one suits your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so consider factors like sound, feel, and personal typing style when making your decision.
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 are the way to go. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience without sacrificing the medium feel, the Outemu Silent White switches are a great option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound and feel during typing.
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