Kailh Box Jade vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Onion. The Box Jades are perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility. Their high-pitched clicks and crunchy tactile bumps add an invigorating element to typing. On the other hand, the WS Onions offer a different experience with a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. These switches provide a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. They also offer a crisp and responsive feel, coupled with a neutral sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Kailh Box Jade and Wuque Studio WS Onion switches are nearly identical. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. The only slight difference in the descriptions is that the WS Onion's polycarbonate top housing is mentioned separately from the bottom housing, while the Box Jade's polycarbonate top housing is not explicitly stated to be different from the bottom housing. However, the overall effect is likely to be very similar for both switches, as both rely on polycarbonate for their top housing.

When it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Kailh Box Jade and Wuque Studio WS Onion switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. The descriptions for both switches highlight this aspect, indicating that the sound profile will be affected by the nylon bottom housing.

As each switch uses different materials for the top and bottom housings, it is important to note that the qualities brought by these materials will be split accordingly. When pressing down on a key, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will mostly be influenced by the characteristics of the bottom housing material. In contrast, the sound produced when releasing a key will be influenced more by the qualities of the top housing material. Therefore, understanding the properties of both the top and bottom housing materials is crucial in evaluating the overall sound and feel of each switch.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Onion is unavailable, making it difficult to determine how it compares. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Box Jade requires 60 grams of force, while the WS Onion demands a heavier 63.5 grams. This makes the WS Onion slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force.

Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it enables them to type for extended periods without fatigue. This is particularly beneficial for those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These users would benefit from switches with heavier forces, like the WS Onion.

In summary, while the actuation force of the Kailh Box Jade switch is known to be lighter at 50 grams, the actuation force of the WS Onion is unavailable. However, the bottom out force of the Box Jade is lighter at 60 grams compared to the WS Onion's medium-heavy 63.5 grams, making the WS Onion slightly heavier. This difference in force can be influential depending on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the WS Onion is slightly longer than the Box Jade. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the WS Onion falls within the range of traditional travel distances, while the Box Jade's 3.6 mm is slightly shorter. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box Jade. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial keypress may lean towards the longer travel distance of the WS Onion. Both switches offer distinct experiences, catering to different preferences and needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is best known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level and is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you are planning to use these switches at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is described as having an accented and invigorating feel. An accented switch provides a medium tactile experience with a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This type of switch offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is described as having a buttery and polished feel. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, a polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in sleek and friction-free key travel. This enhanced smoothness can be achieved through the use of high-quality materials or factory lubing.

Considering all the available information, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jades provide a medium-heavy typing experience with a high-pitched and crunchy sound, as well as an accented and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the WS Onions offer a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a neutral sound profile. Based on your preferences, you can choose either switch to achieve similar results in terms of typing satisfaction.

Conclusion

Bringing it all together, if you prioritize a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and a prominent amount of tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a crisp click sound and crunchy tactile bumps when typing, providing an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a neutral sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches would be more suitable for you. These switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, a crisp and responsive feel, and a seamless, effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for the sound and feel of the switches, as both the Kailh Box Jade and WS Onion switches offer unique and desirable qualities.

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