Kailh Box Jade vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Silent Brown. The Box Jade switches are ideal if you desire a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and distinct tactility. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps they offer provide a unique and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches are great for those seeking a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Additionally, these switches have a muted sound profile, making them perfect for those who prefer a quieter working environment. However, let's delve deeper into the characteristics of these switches to help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Silent Brown have similar housing materials in terms of the polycarbonate used for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, when it comes to the top housing, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
However, the two switches differ in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Box Jade features a nylon bottom housing, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Brown also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. Just like the Box Jade, the Silent Brown benefits from the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Although the bottom housing may not be as noticeable when pressing down on the switch, it plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, while both the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Silent Brown share polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound and aesthetic experience, they differentiate themselves in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound. Whether it is the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel or the sound when releasing a key influenced by the top housing, these switches provide different experiences due to their varying housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Box Jade has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Box Jade has a force of 60 grams, while the Silent Brown measures slightly heavier at 63.5 grams. Therefore, in terms of the bottom out force, the Silent Brown is the heavier option.
Considering weight in the context of typing preferences, those seeking a lighter keystroke for extended periods of typing or gaming may prefer the Silent Brown switch due to its lower actuation force. This lighter actuation force can help reduce fatigue over time. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Box Jade switch, with its higher actuation force. The heavier force required for bottoming out in the Silent Brown switch may also provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those seeking a greater resistance during typing. Overall, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force between the Kailh Box Jade and TTC Silent Brown allow for distinct preferences in choosing a switch best suited to individual typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is apparent that the Silent Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Box Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Despite this difference, both switches fall within the range of what is considered typical for key travel distances. A traditional travel distance is 4.0 mm, but 3.0 mm is also popular for a shallower feel. The shorter travel distance of the Box Jade makes it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter distances are associated with increased responsiveness. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Silent Brown may be appealing to individuals who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one prioritizes a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Jade switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce sharp and crisp clicks that resemble the sound of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound profile. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches. The Silent Brown switches are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience. This means that the switch provides a medium level of tactility without being too overwhelming or subtle. It offers pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch provides a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. The switch has a smooth and fluid keystroke, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. It offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, and the reduced friction and smooth key travel contribute to its polished feel.
In conclusion, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be a great choice for you. They provide crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps when typing. However, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a lighter level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, along with a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown switches would be the ideal option. Both switches offer unique qualities, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Be sure to consider factors such as sound, feel, and other subjective aspects when making your decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches are perfect for you. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps provide an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. Additionally, if you prefer a higher-pitched switch sound that resembles stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, the Box Jade switches are an excellent choice.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown switches are the way to go. The muted sound profile of these switches ensures a quieter and softer typing experience, making them suitable for environments where noise is a concern.
In terms of feel, the Box Jade switches offer an accented tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, providing a prominent amount of tactility. Their invigorating and reactive feel adds to the immersive typing sensation. Conversely, the Silent Brown switches offer a buttery smooth and fluid keystroke experience. With their mild characteristics and polished finish, these switches provide a more gentle and approachable typing sensation, suitable for most users.
Ultimately, the choice between Kailh Box Jade clicky switches and TTC Silent Brown tactile switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. Whether you prioritize medium-heavy clicky feedback or a quieter, smoother typing experience, both switches offer their unique advantages. Consider your needs and preferences in terms of sound and feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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