Kailh Box Jade vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Box Jades are perfect if you're seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps offer a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu is known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can better decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches are very similar. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for a translucent design, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. When it comes to the nylon bottom housing, both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
However, despite these similarities, there are slight differences between the two switches. While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, the specific properties of the polycarbonate used may vary slightly. This could potentially lead to a slightly different sound profile between the two switches. Additionally, while both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, the level of sound absorption and resulting sound profile may also differ slightly. These subtle variations in materials can contribute to a unique typing experience for each switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer comparable sound profiles. Both switches deliver a sharp and resonant sound when pressing down on the keys, thanks to the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Therefore, users can expect a similar overall result when using these switches, with minor variations based on the specific properties of the materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Box Jade has a slightly higher actuation and bottom out force. The Box Jade requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, which can provide a satisfying push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch has a slightly lighter actuation and bottom out force, requiring 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. This lighter force can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a lighter switch and allows for longer typing periods without strain. Although the forces are not drastically different, these variances can still make a noticeable difference in the typing experience for some users. Overall, if a lighter typing experience is desired, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch would be the better option, while those seeking a slightly heavier and more substantial feel may prefer the Kailh Box Jade.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, the Box Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm while the Yellow Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Jade falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice for gamers who value fast response times. Its shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses, resulting in a more responsive gaming experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver offers a slightly deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference - whether one prefers the quicker and shorter travel distance of the Box Jade or the slightly longer and more pronounced keystrokes of the Yellow Silver.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50, whereas the Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
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 has a distinct high-pitched sound profile with crisp and crunchy clicks. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a rich and sharp sound when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a neutral sound profile, meaning it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. The sound of both switches can also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel, the Box Jade switch provides an accented tactile experience. It falls into the category of medium tactile switches, offering a noticeable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. Additionally, it offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is unknown as the information provided does not include any descriptors or descriptions.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is praised for its high-pitched sound profile with crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps. It offers a medium-heavy typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a clicky and tactile switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it a favorable choice for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. While the sound and feel of the Box Jade switch are well-defined, information about the feel of the Yellow Silver switch is not available. Overall, both switches offer different qualities, and the choice between them will depend on personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its medium bottom out force of 60 grams provides a satisfying amount of resistance. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps of the Box Jade switch make typing on it a joy. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch would be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, this switch offers a speediness and responsiveness favored by gamers and typists. The neutral sound profile ensures a moderate sound experience, suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade and Outemu Yellow Silver switches depends on your preference for typing experience, sound, and feel.
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