Kailh Box Jade vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you might find yourself deciding between the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Red Panda. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Box Jade is ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility. This switch provides crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, giving your typing a sense of satisfaction. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a lighter-medium amount of tactility and a distinct bassier bottom-out sound paired with a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This switch is categorized as "thocky" and "mild." However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Red Panda have similar housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for users who plan to incorporate RGB lighting in their setup. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic appeal from the polycarbonate top housing of both switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Box Jade and the Red Panda differs in material. The Box Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Red Panda also utilizes nylon. The nylon bottom housing of these switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing provides a different tactile experience, as it emphasizes a softer and more cushioned feel. While both switches offer a deeper sound profile, the specific feel and sound experience may vary slightly due to differences in design and construction.
It is important to note that the qualities each housing material brings to the switch are divided between the top and bottom housing. When pressing down on either the Box Jade or the Red Panda, users will feel the impact of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and overall feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience, as the switch can offer different sound and feel depending on the specific action being taken.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is apparent that these two switches have identical actuation forces and bottom out forces. Both switches require an actuation force of 50 grams, which is considered to be medium in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, ensuring a consistent typing experience. This similarity in weight ensures that users will achieve similar results when typing on either switch. Whether one prefers a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or a heavier and more substantial feel, both the Box Jade and Red Panda switches offer a balance between the two preferences with their medium actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Therefore, the Box Jade has a longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda.
In terms of preference, gamers tend to favor shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Red Panda would be a suitable choice for those seeking a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper key press may find the longer travel distance of the Box Jade more satisfying.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. If responsiveness is a priority, the Red Panda with its shorter travel distance would be ideal. However, those who enjoy a deeper key press may find the longer travel distance of the Box Jade more to their liking. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer unique characteristics and will deliver enjoyable typing experiences.
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 Red Panda 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
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is known for its high-pitched sound profile with crisp clicks and a crunchy, autumn leaf-like sound when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch produces a different sound experience. It has a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. The Red Panda switch is categorized as thocky, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the Box Jade switch is described as accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It provides a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch is described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most people in terms of both feel and sound.
Considering the available information, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a high-pitched, crisp sound profile and crunchy tactile bumps. It offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a lighter-medium amount of tactility with a bassier, raindrop-like sound and clackier top-out sound. It offers a mild and approachable typing experience suitable for a wider range of users.
While the sound and feel of these switches differ, it is important to consider that other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the sound characteristics. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps provide a satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter amount of tactility with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be more suitable. It offers a gentle typing experience with a safe, middle-ground sound and feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
