Kailh Box Jade vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a unique typing experience, you may want to consider the Kailh Box Jade and the SP-Star Duck switches. The Box Jades provide a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying click and a noticeable tactile bump. Typing on these switches is sure to provide a sense of invigoration with their high-pitched and accented sound profile. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile typing experience. With a gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile, typing on these switches feels buttery and polished. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and SP-Star Duck keyboards both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for incorporating RGB lighting into the switch's design. Similarly, both keyboards utilize nylon for their bottom housings. While the Box Jade's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and clearer sound, maintaining consistency with the overall sound profile of the keyboard.
Although the top and bottom housings differ between the Box Jade and the Duck, each material brings unique qualities to the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing, also made of polycarbonate in both cases, plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This division allows users to experience a nuanced sound and feel from these switches, providing a well-rounded typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Box Jade and the Duck benefit from their polycarbonate top housings. The transparent nature of polycarbonate adds a visually appealing element to the switches, allowing for seamless integration of RGB lighting. Whether it is the Box Jade's clear housing or the Duck's similar design, users can enjoy the vibrant illumination provided by RGB lighting setups. This gives both keyboards a visually striking appearance, enhancing the overall gaming or typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, some similarities and differences arise. The actuation force of the Kailh Box Jade is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the SP-Star Duck is unavailable, meaning it is unknown. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Box Jade at 60 grams and the Duck at 58 grams. If someone prefers a lighter typing experience, the Kailh Box Jade may be the better choice due to its slightly lighter actuation force. This lighter weight can be beneficial for those who type for longer periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the SP-Star Duck with its slightly heavier bottom out force might be more suitable. Overall, while the specific actuation force for the Duck switch is unknown, the medium bottom out forces of both switches result in a similar typing experience in terms of force required.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Duck has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of the most traditional travel distance, the Duck fits the bill with its 4.0 mm distance, while the Box Jade is slightly shorter. This may make the Duck more appealing to those who prefer a deeper keypress and a more pronounced tactile feedback. However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. In this case, the Box Jade's 3.6 mm travel distance might be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style; some may find the abruptness of a shorter travel distance satisfying, while others may prefer the solidity and depth of a longer travel distance. Both switches will offer satisfactory results, albeit with slightly different experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 produces a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp when pressed, which is ideal for those who prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile. Additionally, these switches have a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a neutral sound profile that is neither too loud nor too quiet. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use the keyboard at home or work. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offers an accented tactile experience. This means that it provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It falls into the category of a medium tactile switch, providing a satisfying feedback without being too intense. Furthermore, these switches have an invigorating feel characterized by a moderate to firm actuation force, snappy and reactive response, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a mild typing experience with a gentle touch. These switches have a buttery smooth keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the Duck switches are polished, resulting in reduced friction and a smooth key travel, offering a sleek typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is best suited for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and a crunchy tactile feel. It provides crisp clicks and a satisfying tactile bump that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is recommended for individuals looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience. The switches offer a gentle tactility and produce clean and crispy sound. Both switches have their own unique qualities, so the choice ultimately depends on the user's personal preference and typing style. However, if a similar typing experience is desired, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch can provide a comparable result with its mild tactile feel and neutral sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are in search of a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and distinct tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be an excellent choice for you. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps of these switches provide an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. If you prefer a more subtle tactile experience, however, the SP-Star Duck switches would be more suitable. These switches offer a gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. With their mild and approachable qualities, they provide a comfortable typing experience for most users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire.
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