Kailh Box Jade vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and the Dareu Sky V3 offer distinct typing experiences to suit different preferences. The Box Jade stands out for its medium-heavy typing feel, clicky sound profile, and pronounced tactile feedback, making it perfect for those who enjoy a satisfyingly clicky and crunchy typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, providing a comfortable and precise typing experience favored by enthusiasts and professionals. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box Jade and the Dareu Sky V3 keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is often chosen for its translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Box Jade uses nylon while the Sky V3 also opts for nylon. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing.
Despite both keyboards utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Kailh Box Jade's nylon bottom housing provides a duller and rounder sound compared to the Dareu Sky V3's nylon bottom housing. While the top housing material may have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This showcases how the choice of housing material can influence the overall typing experience on a keyboard.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in keyboards like the Kailh Box Jade and the Dareu Sky V3 can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. Both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound, but the differences in bottom housing materials, nylon for the Box Jade and nylon for the Sky V3, create varying levels of sound absorption and depth. Understanding the role of each housing material can help users make informed decisions when selecting a keyboard that aligns with their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Box Jade requires a slightly heavier force to actuate at 50 grams compared to the Sky V3's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Box Jade is also heavier at 60 grams, while the Sky V3's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Box Jade provides a more substantial typing experience overall due to both its actuation and bottom out forces being higher. Those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Sky V3, while those seeking a heavier push feel may find the Box Jade more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Box Jade is shorter than the Sky V3. A shorter travel distance can provide faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can offer a more satisfying keypress experience for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the intended use of the keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 switch is best known for its high-pitched and crunchy clicky sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound signature, making it suitable for a wider range of preferences and environments. While the Box Jade may be more energizing and attention-grabbing in terms of sound, the Sky V3 offers a more understated and versatile option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium tactile experience with a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. This creates an immersive typing sensation with snappy and reactive feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch offers a milder typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. With its qualities falling in a safe middle-ground zone, the Sky V3 delivers a comfortable and consistent feel for a wide range of typing preferences.
Overall, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box Jade is characterized by its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, along with an invigorating tactile feel, the Sky V3 provides a more neutral and subdued sound, paired with a mild and gentle typing experience. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Box Jade catering to those who enjoy a more attention-grabbing typing experience, while the Sky V3 appeals to those seeking a versatile and comfortable typing option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience depending on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be a great choice for you. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps provide an invigorating typing sensation that many enthusiasts enjoy. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a medium-light typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches would be a better fit. Their subdued sound and mild feel offer a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade and Dareu Sky V3 switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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