Kailh Box Jade vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade offer unique typing experiences. The Box Jades provide a medium-heavy typing feel with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactile feedback, making them ideal for those who enjoy a more invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jades offer a quieter typing experience with tactile feedback and a satisfying "thocky" sound, perfect for those who prefer a more subdued typing feel. Both switches have their own strengths and can cater to different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches, it is evident that both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This characteristic creates a duller and rounder sound, making both switches suitable for those seeking a quieter typing experience. While the bottom housing plays a significant role in how these switches feel when pressed down, the differences in top housing materials will affect the sound profile produced when releasing a key.
However, where the Box Jade stands out is in its polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to nylon. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound when typing, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches feature a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound that may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience they offer. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, the difference in their top housing materials leads to distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Silent Yellow Jade produces a deeper and fuller sound, making it a great option for users seeking a quieter typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches provide a tactile typing experience that can cater to a variety of preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, it can be seen that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the Box Jade has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the Silent Yellow Jade, which has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a heavier option. This means that the Box Jade will provide a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for those looking for a more extended typing session, while the Silent Yellow Jade will offer a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. In conclusion, those who prefer a lighter touch should opt for the Kailh Box Jade switch, while those who prefer a heavier push feel should go for the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Kailh Box Jade has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch. A longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying keypress for some users, while a shorter travel distance may be preferred by those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer a different experience in terms of travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences.
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 Yellow Jade 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offers a high-pitched and crunchy typing experience, producing sharp and crisp clicks reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch provides a quiet typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, ideal for those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences in terms of typing noise.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is characterized by an accented and invigorating tactile feedback. This means that users can expect a medium-tactile typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump that is not overwhelming but still provides a satisfying amount of feedback. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch is unknown, but given its tactile nature, it likely offers a similar level of tactile feedback without the audible clicks commonly associated with clicky switches.
Overall, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offer unique typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a high-pitched and crunchy typing experience with pronounced tactile feedback, the Box Jade switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a satisfying thocky sound and tactile feedback, the Silent Yellow Jade switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider your personal typing preferences when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, you should choose the Box Jades if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and crunchy tactile feedback. On the other hand, opt for the Silent Yellow Jades if you desire a quiet, tactile typing experience with a "thocky" sound. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider your typing style and sound preferences when making your decision. Regardless of your choice, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that will enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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