Kailh Box Jade vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Kailh Box Jade and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Box Jade is perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility. Its crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps add an invigorating and high-pitched element to your typing. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its innovation, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. It provides a silky smooth type feel without being overly polished. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and usage scenarios. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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 housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches share similarities in terms of their sound profiles. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for switches that incorporate RGB lighting features. Therefore, both the Kailh Box Jade and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches will exhibit similar sound characteristics due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.
Where the two switches differ is in the material used for their bottom housings. The Kailh Box Jade switch employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, the Kailh Box Jade and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches will have varying sound profiles when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Jade switch offering a deeper and fuller tone compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in determining the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, even though both the Kailh Box Jade and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches have different top and bottom housings, the overall sound profiles of the switches can still be similar. The combination of the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a well-rounded and distinct typing experience, while allowing for slight variations in sound depending on which part of the switch is engaged.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear's actuation force is listed as unavailable. This means that we cannot directly compare the actuation forces of these two switches. However, both switches have a bottom out force that is considered medium, with the Box Jade being slightly lighter at 60 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's 62 grams.
Considering weight, the Box Jade clicky switch offers a lighter actuation force, which may be preferred by those who need to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. This lighter force can help reduce fatigue and enhance comfort during prolonged use. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch's actuation force is unknown, but its bottom out force is slightly heavier than the Box Jade. This could provide a stronger push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Box Jade and Semi-Silent Linear switches cannot be directly compared, their bottom out forces reveal that the Box Jade is lighter at 60 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear is slightly heavier at 62 grams. Depending on individual preferences, the choice between these switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier force is desired for an optimal typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. Choosing the shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm offered by the Box Jade clicky switch would provide a more responsive feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke experience, opting for the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on individual preference for either a quicker and snappier feel or a more substantial depth when pressing down on the keys.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 crunchy sound profile. The sharp and crisp clicks that these switches produce are reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a more subdued sound experience. While not completely silent, it offers a dampened sound when pressed, with a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. This makes it a suitable choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Turning our attention to feel, the Box Jade switch is characterized as accented and invigorating. It offers a medium level of tactility, with a prominent amount that is not overwhelming or subtle. This switch provides a typing sensation that is immersive, snappy, and reactive. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience. Its mild characteristics make it approachable to most users, with qualities that stand in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as snappy and buttery, providing a super responsive and smooth keystroke experience. The polished finish of the switch further enhances its seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Considering all the available information, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is best suited for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactile feedback. Its crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps create an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a quieter and smoother typing experience. With its semi-silent nature, it provides a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The mild and approachable feel, combined with the snappy and buttery characteristics, make it an excellent choice for those seeking a more gentle and refined typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences and requirements when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard, and both the Kailh Box Jade and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches provide unique qualities that cater to different needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be the perfect choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, which offers a satisfying typing experience without being too heavy. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on the Box Jades a pleasure.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and whisper-quiet typing experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches would be an excellent option. These switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is similar to the Box Jades. The Semi-Silent Linear switches provide a silky smooth and clacky bottom-out sound, while maintaining a quiet topping-out sound. The mild and snappy characteristics of these switches offer a gentle and responsive typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Box Jade switches produce high-pitched clicks and a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. This sound profile is perfect if you enjoy a sharp and crisp typing sound. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switches offer a more subdued and neutral sound profile. While not completely silent, these switches provide a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches.
When it comes to feel, the Box Jade switches offer an accented tactile feel with a moderate amount of tactility. The invigorating feedback and moderate actuation force make typing on these switches immersive and satisfying. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear switches provide a mild and snappy typing experience. The buttery and polished characteristic of these switches ensures smooth and effortless key travel.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with crisp clicks and a clicky sound, the Kailh Box Jade switches are the way to go. However, if you value a more hushed and smooth typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches would be the better choice. Consider your desired sound and feel, and choose the switch that best suits your preferences. Happy typing!
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