Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience. The Box Jade is ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, perfect for individuals who enjoy the satisfying click and crunch of each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie offers a different experience with its all-POM construction, providing a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch for a more subdued typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. 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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Smoothie, we see that the Box Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing while the Smoothie opts for a POM top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Jade creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the POM top housing of the Smoothie produces a deeper and more muted sound. These differences in top housing materials contribute to the overall sound experience of each switch, with the Box Jade offering a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the Smoothie's more subdued tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Box Jade features a nylon bottom housing while the Smoothie utilizes a POM bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, POM also creates a deep sound profile, but with a relatively more muted tone. Despite the differences in material, both housing materials aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a unique sound profile that complements the overall feel of the switch.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing on that switch. While the Box Jade and the Smoothie have distinct material choices for their top and bottom housings, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles. Whether it's the sharper and higher-pitched sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Box Jade or the deeper and more muted sound of the POM top housing in the Smoothie, both switches offer a tactile and auditory experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the Box Jade requires a slightly higher actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Box Jade again has a higher force at 60 grams, while the Smoothie's bottom out force remains unknown. This means that the Box Jade is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Smoothie. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Smoothie more suitable for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Box Jade. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, although the Box Jade offers a slightly heavier feel overall.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.6mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Box Jade or the Smoothie, you can expect to have a consistent travel distance while typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 clicky switch is best described as having a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, making them perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and rich tone that is satisfyingly mellow. The Smoothie switch also boasts a more subdued sound compared to the more pronounced clicks of the Box Jade, giving users a quieter typing experience overall. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offers an accented and invigorating typing sensation, with a medium-heavy actuation force and a notably tactile experience that is neither too light nor too heavy. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing an incredibly smooth and uniform keystroke experience that feels effortless and seamless. The Smoothie switch is known for its exceptional smoothness and minimal resistance, making it a popular choice for those seeking a luxurious typing feel. Ultimately, the feel preference between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more tactile or a smoother typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Box Jade provides a clicky sound profile with a crunchy tactile feel, while the Smoothie switch offers a thocky sound and a buttery-smooth typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize a sharp clicky sound and medium-heavy tactile feedback, or a deep, rich sound with a smooth and creamy typing sensation, you can choose the switch that best fits your personal preferences and typing style. Both switches offer high-quality performance, so you can expect a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Box Jade would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight touch with a thocky sound signature and smooth keystrokes, the Smoothie would be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision boils down to whether you prioritize the crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps of the Box Jade or the thocky sound and buttery smoothness of the Smoothie. Make your decision based on what typing experience you find most appealing and satisfying.
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