Kailh Box Jade vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and TTC Venus offer distinct typing experiences. The Box Jade is ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy typing feel with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. Its high-pitched and invigorating clicks, along with crunchy tactile bumps, make for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus stands out for its innovative design, offering a smooth and frictionless glide combined with a unique "Q-texture" that provides a matte sensation when typing. This switch boasts a light actuation for rapid typing and a muted sound signature for a more subdued auditory experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive deeper into the specifics to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and TTC Venus switches, it is clear that they each offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The Box Jade's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Venus's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, offering a distinct typing experience. While both materials have their own merits, users will need to determine which sound profile best suits their preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Box Jade's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Venus's polycarbonate bottom housing mirrors the characteristics of its top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile that is consistent throughout the switch. Users who prefer a more uniform sound profile may lean towards the Venus switch for a more cohesive typing experience.
It is important to note that the qualities of each housing material will be felt differently depending on whether it is used in the top or bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the importance of considering the overall typing experience and sound profile desired when choosing between switches with different housing materials for the top and bottom. Ultimately, whether opting for the Box Jade with its varying housing materials or the Venus with consistent materials, users can expect a unique typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Venus linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Venus the lighter option. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Jade requires 60 grams while the Venus requires 52 grams, with the Box Jade being the heavier option between the two. Both switches fall under the medium force category for actuation and bottom out. This means that while the Venus may provide a lighter typing experience overall, the Box Jade offers a slightly more substantial push feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Box Jade catering to those who prefer a heavier typing experience and the Venus appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Box Jade has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Venus switch. The difference may not be significant, but for those who are sensitive to the feel of the switch, it could make a difference in typing or gaming experience. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users who prioritize fast response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and responsiveness desired in a keyboard switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, producing sharp and crisp clicks with each press. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch offers a low-pitched and muted sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience. The Box Jade gives a medium-heavy typing feel with a tactile bump, while the Venus offers a unique matte sensation with a smooth and almost frictionless keystroke. The Box Jade is described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium tactile feedback that is not overpowering. In contrast, the Venus is characterized by its buttery and frictionless feel, offering a fluid and effortless typing experience. Overall, the Box Jade is more suitable for those wanting a pronounced tactile and clicky typing experience, while the TTC Venus is perfect for those looking for a smooth and quiet linear switch. Whether you choose the Box Jade or Venus, both switches offer exceptional qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and noticeable tactile feedback, the Box Jade switches would be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force with a smooth and frictionless typing experience, along with a more muted sound signature, the Venus switches would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your preferences for sound and feel, as well as your typing habits, when making your decision. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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