Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Box Jades are perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and satisfying tactility. With crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, they provide an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, Gateron's Zero Degree 0° linear switch stands out for its innovative design that prioritizes silent typing, delivering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound. While the Box Jades excel in providing a tactile and audible typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on offering a silent and smooth typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, they may differ in terms of color or design, providing users with aesthetic variations to choose from.
On the other hand, the Box Jade and Zero Degree 0° both feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound that can be preferred by some users for a more satisfying typing experience. While the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches may lead to similar sound profiles, subtle differences may still exist based on the specific design and construction of each switch.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Box Jade and Zero Degree 0° switches illustrates how different materials can impact the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. While both switches offer similar characteristics in terms of their housing materials, the placement of these materials can affect how the switches perform during typing. Whether it's the crisp sound of polycarbonate in the top housing or the deep sound of nylon in the bottom housing, both switches provide unique typing experiences for users to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Box Jade has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Zero Degree's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Jade requires 60 grams while the Gateron Zero Degree's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Box Jade provides a more tactile typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, while the Zero Degree offers a lighter actuation force but with unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Zero Degree, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Box Jade. Ultimately, the weight difference between the two switches can cater to different preferences for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. This allows for consistent tactile feedback and a comfortable typing experience regardless of which switch is chosen. Both switches offer a satisfying keypress with a moderate travel distance, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a standard typing experience. Overall, whether you choose the Box Jade or the Zero Degree 0° switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound with each press. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on reducing noise with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, resulting in a smoother and quieter typing experience. While the Box Jade offers a more traditional clicky sound, the Zero Degree 0° aims to provide a more muted and subtle typing experience, catering to those who prefer a quieter switch.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience with its tactile bumps and medium actuation force, providing a satisfying feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch's feel is not explicitly described in the provided information. However, linear switches like the Zero Degree 0° typically offer a smooth keystroke with consistent actuation across the entire key travel, lacking the tactile bump found in clicky switches like the Box Jade.
Overall, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that delivers a tactile and clicky typing experience with a high-pitched sound, the Kailh Box Jade switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience without the tactile feedback, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch may be more suitable for you. Remember, the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout, keycap material, and typing technique.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile bumps, the Box Jades are the way to go. On the other hand, if you value silent typing with unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Zero Degree 0° linear switches are the perfect choice for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
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