Kailh Box Jade vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade, a clicky switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, a linear switch. The Box Jade is perfect for individuals seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and satisfying tactility. Known for its high-pitched and invigorating feel, the Box Jade provides crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps when typing. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches from Wuque Studio offer a unique combination of innovation and visual aesthetics. These ultra-smooth linear switches feature a light-diffusing column that enhances the RGB visuals, creating a mesmerizing effect. With a creamy feel due to the UPE stem and a slightly muted sound profile, the WS Morandi strike the perfect balance between form and function. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi have different housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Box Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Morandi has a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials create pleasing sounds, the Box Jade leans towards a brighter and sharper tone compared to the WS Morandi's deeper profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Box Jade utilizes a nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon's softer composition allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the WS Morandi uses a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a pleasing and unique sound. Although both materials enhance the sound quality, the Box Jade's nylon housing elicits a deeper and more resonant tone compared to the WS Morandi's relatively more muted sound.
When comparing the housing materials in terms of the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housing. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's qualities have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Box Jade and WS Morandi may have different materials for their top and bottom housings, the ultimate sound experience will be a combination of the qualities contributed by both materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both of which are considered medium. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 60 grams, also classified as medium.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer lighter switches may find the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch more suitable. The lighter actuation force allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may lean towards options with heavier forces. In this case, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch could be the preferred choice due to its slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, which is also rated at 60 grams.
Although the actuation force of the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch is unknown, its similarity in bottom out force to the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch suggests that they may provide a comparable typing experience in terms of force required. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation force, with the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch being lighter and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch being on par in terms of bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Morandi has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Although the difference may seem negligible, it can still affect the typing or gaming experience. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered standard, with 4.0 mm being the most traditional and 3.0 mm being the most shallow. However, there is a growing trend towards shorter travel distances, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. In this aspect, the WS Morandi may be more favorable with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance like the Box Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 best known for its high-pitched, crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, perfect for those who prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile. The Box Jades provide an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch offers a slightly more muted sound profile. These switches have a low-pitched, subdued sound when pressed. While not completely silent, they provide a more subtle and dampened sound compared to most switches. Additionally, the WS Morandi switches are described as having a thocky sound, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when the key is pressed and released.
In terms of feel, the Box Jade switches are accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They provide a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches are described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches offer a seamless and effortless typing sensation, like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switches and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles. The Box Jade switches provide high-pitched, crisp clicks and an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches have a more muted sound profile with a low-pitched and thocky sound. They offer a buttery and creamy feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. Depending on your personal preference, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and prominent tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches are perfect for you. These switches offer a crisp click sound and a crunchy tactile bump, providing an invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with innovation and visual aesthetics, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches are a great choice. These ultra-smooth linear switches feature a light-diffusing column and offer a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness. With a medium weight and a slightly muted sound profile, the WS Morandi switches strike the perfect balance between form and function. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound and feel, whether it's the high-pitched clicky sound and accentuated tactility of the Box Jade, or the low-pitched, subdued sound and buttery smoothness of the WS Morandi.
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