Kailh Box Jade vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

The Kailh Box Jade and Kailh Sage are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct clicky typing experiences. The Box Jade is known for providing a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage switches offer a heavy typing experience with a refreshingly sharp clickiness. They provide a distinct clicky sound and are categorized as invigorating and crunchy.

If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and enjoy the tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches are a great choice. Meanwhile, if you lean towards a heavier typing experience with a sharp and distinct clicky feeling, the Kailh Sage switches might be more suitable for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that perfectly matches your typing preferences.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Kailh Sage switches share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a rigid plastic that allows for more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Box Jade or the Sage switches.

However, the main point of distinction lies in the bottom housing material of these two switches. The Box Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Sage also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, when typing on the Box Jade switch, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, users can expect a similar experience with the Sage switch, as both switches incorporate nylon in their bottom housing, creating a similar typing experience.

In conclusion, the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Kailh Sage switches provide similar sound and aesthetic qualities through their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing. However, the bottom housing materials introduce distinct characteristics. The Box Jade's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Sage's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a similar typing experience. Ultimately, users will experience variations in sound and feel depending on the bottom housing material of each switch, highlighting the importance of the overall composition of the switch in determining its unique attributes.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is clear that they have different force requirements. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. On the other hand, the Sage's actuation force is unavailable, so it is difficult to determine if it is lighter or heavier than the Box Jade in this regard. However, the Sage does have a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy.

Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Some prefer lighter switches, like the Box Jade, which require less force to trigger a keystroke. This allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for tasks that require prolonged use, such as work or gaming. In contrast, others may prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. The Sage's higher bottom out force provides a stronger push feel, which some individuals find more satisfying.

If the desired force preference is similar for both switches, one could expect similar results from both the Box Jade and the Sage. However, it is important to note that the Sage's actuation force is unknown, so it is not possible to definitively compare the two in terms of actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade and Kailh Sage switches depends on individual preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. This makes them both suitable options for those who prefer a consistent and familiar typing experience. Whether you choose the Box Jade or the Sage, you can expect a satisfying clicky response and a stable travel distance of 3.6 mm.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Box Jade and Kailh Sage switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade is known for its high-pitched sound profile, producing sharp and crisp clicks when pressed. Additionally, it has a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the sound produced by the Sage switch is also described as crunchy. Both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, but the Box Jade has a higher-pitched tone while the Sage has a refreshingly sharp clickiness.

When it comes to feel, the Box Jade switch is described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It gives a pronounced feedback and an invigorating typing sensation due to its moderate to firm actuation force. Similarly, the Sage switch is also invigorating, offering a reactive and snappy feel with pronounced feedback. It has a sharp tactile bump, which is felt distinctly with every keypress. Both switches give a satisfying tactile experience, with the Box Jade offering a medium tactile response and the Sage providing a strong and crisp tactile bump.

Overall, the Kailh Box Jade and Kailh Sage switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade offers a medium-heavy typing experience with high-pitched clicks and crunchy tactile bumps. It provides an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Sage switch has a heavy weight, refreshingly sharp clickiness, and a strong and crisp tactile bump. While they offer different characteristics, both switches deliver satisfying clicky experiences. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a delightful typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a distinct clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches are perfect for you. These switches offer a satisfyingly crisp click and crunchy tactile bumps when typing. The Box Jade switches have a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a balanced typing feel.

On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier clicky switch with a sharp clickiness, the Kailh Sage switches are a great choice. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, giving a weightier typing experience. The Sage switches also offer a crunchy sound profile, similar to stepping on piles of autumn leaves.

In terms of sound, both switches are described as crunchy, but the Box Jade switches also have a high-pitched sound profile. If you prefer a sharp and crisp sound, the Box Jade switches would be a better fit for you.

When it comes to the feel, both switches are invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. However, the Box Jade switches are also described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. On the other hand, the Sage switches have a sharp tactile bump that is prominent and distinctly felt with each keypress.

Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade and Sage switches will depend on your preference for typing experience. If you desire a medium-heavy switch with a sharp click and distinct tactile feedback, the Sage switches are a great option. If you prefer a medium switch with a high-pitched click and balanced tactility, the Box Jade switches are the way to go. Consider your personal preferences and typing style to determine which switch will best enhance your typing experience.

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