Kailh Box Jade vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences are the Kailh Box Jade and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Box Jade switch is ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and satisfying tactility. Its crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on it a delight. On the other hand, if maximum tactility is what you desire, then the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is the one for you. This switch offers a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack, providing a punchy typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision about which switch is best suited for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ significantly when it comes to their housing materials. The Box Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which gives it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deep and muted sound profile. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking a more mellow typing experience.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Box Jade employs a nylon material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. Conversely, the POM T1 (Sunflower) features a POM bottom housing that also contributes to its deep and muted sound profile. Although both switches utilize different materials, they both offer a unique typing experience characterized by a lower-frequency sound.
When it comes to the impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch, the housing materials play a significant role. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the differing qualities of the top and bottom housing materials in these switches will result in distinct tactile and auditory experiences. However, if you are aiming for a similar overall effect, both switches offer deep and resonant sound profiles, catering to those who prefer a more immersive and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Kailh Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both falling into the medium range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare. However, its bottom out force is 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.
Considering weight is an important factor for many users, those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Kailh Box Jade more suitable. The lighter actuation force allows for longer and more comfortable typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier force. In this case, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) presents itself as a viable option with its higher bottom out force, providing a stronger push feel.
While a direct comparison of actuation forces remains unknown for the Durock POM T1, it is safe to assume that it is either similar to or heavier than the Kailh Box Jade. As both switches fall within the medium range of actuation forces, users can expect similar results in terms of trigger sensitivity. However, the heavier bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 suggests a potentially more solid and pronounced keystroke experience compared to the Kailh Box Jade. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on the individual's preference for lighter or heavier actuation forces and the desired typing or gaming experience overall.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the POM T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm.
In terms of traditional travel distances, the POM T1 falls within the norm at 4.0 mm, while the Box Jade is slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. Gamers and those seeking faster response times often prefer shorter travel distances, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. If you value responsiveness, the Box Jade may be the better option for you.
However, some users find short travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial keypress with a greater sense of depth, the longer travel distance offered by the POM T1 may be more suitable for your preference.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and how it affects your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
The Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 offers a high-pitched and crisp sound profile. The clicks produced by these switches are sharp and satisfying, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a resonant sound profile, with a higher-pitched tone and a clean, sharp sound. This switch offers a more neutral sound overall, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, based on the provided information, if you prefer a higher-pitched and crunchy sound, the Box Jade would be the better choice, while the POM T1 provides a more resonant and neutral sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch offers an invigorating typing experience. These switches provide a moderate to firm actuation force, along with pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive feel. The tactile bump is accented and falls into the range of a medium tactile switch, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Similarly, the Durock POM T1 switch also offers a sharp and accented tactile feel. The tactile bump is strong and crisp, offering high feedback intensity and a distinct feel with every keystroke. Additionally, the POM T1 switch is described as snappy, meaning it is super responsive and creates an "alive" typing experience. Both switches provide an invigorating typing sensation, with a notable tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade provides a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, paired with an accented and invigorating tactile feel. On the other hand, the POM T1 offers a resonant and neutral sound profile, with a sharp and accented tactile feel that is snappy and invigorating. Depending on your preferences, if you prefer a sharper sound and a medium-heavy typing experience with clicky feedback, the Box Jade would be a great choice. Alternatively, if maximum tactility and a clean clack sound profile are more important to you, the POM T1 is an excellent option. Keep in mind that other factors such as your keyboard board and keycaps can also affect the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you want a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches are perfect for you. You will love the crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps when typing on them. On the other hand, if you are after maximum tactility and a sharp tactile bump, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches are the way to go. These switches provide a satisfying clean clack and a pronounced feedback.
In terms of sound, the Box Jade switches produce a high-pitched and crunchy sound. If you prefer a sharp and crisp sound profile over a richer and bassier one, these switches are a great choice. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switches have a resonant and neutral sound profile. The sound is clean, sharp, and suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, using them at home or work.
When it comes to feel, the Box Jade switches offer an accented and invigorating experience. They provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle, along with moderate to firm actuation force and a snappy feel. The POM T1 (Sunflower) switches, on the other hand, have a sharp and accented tactile bump, making each keypress distinct and providing a high feedback intensity. These switches also offer a snappy and invigorating typing sensation, thanks to their responsive nature and moderate to firm actuation force.
Ultimately, the choice between Kailh Box Jade clicky switches and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switches depends on your preferences. If you prioritize the clicky sound and want a medium-heavy typing experience with tactile feedback, go for the Box Jade switches. If you value maximum tactility, a sharp tactile bump, and a clean clack sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switches are the better option. Consider your sound and feel preferences to make an informed decision that suits your typing style and preferences.
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