Kailh Box Royal vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and sound profile. The Kailh Box Royal switch stands out with its sharp and aggressive tactile response, providing users with a pronounced actuation point that enhances typing precision. Its higher-pitched sound profile can also be a delightful feature for those who appreciate auditory feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch boasts a unique hall effect design, which delivers a bright and clacky sound that elevates the auditory experience of typing. Ideal for enthusiasts looking to upgrade their Wooting Hall Effect keyboards, these switches offer a superior typing feel and refined acoustics. While the Box Royal is tailored for those seeking a tactile punch, the Magnetic Jade appeals to users who value a lively sound and an engaging 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
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches, notable differences emerge, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The Box Royal features a nylon top housing, a classic material known for its softer texture, which contributes to a deeper and more resonant sound profile. This characteristic allows the switch to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is significantly stiffer and produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances the clarity of the sound generated but also makes it suitable for RGB lighting applications due to its ability to diffuse light more evenly.
Despite the difference in the top housings, both switches feature nylon in their bottom housings, which brings uniformity to their acoustic characteristics. The nylon used in both the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron Magnetic Jade contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, providing a rich tactile experience when bottoming out the key. As both switches rely on nylon at the base, users can expect a consistent and warm sound, regardless of the dissimilarity in the top housing materials. This shared use of nylon in the bottom section ensures that while the top sound qualities differ, the overall feel and sound when bottoming out will remain similar.
Ultimately, the separation of housing materials between the Kailh Box Royal and Gateron Magnetic Jade leads to an intriguing interplay in sound and tactile feedback. The different top housings signify unique sound characteristics; however, the nylon bottom housing serves as a common foundation that standardizes the bottom-out experience. This means that while the typing experience can feel distinct due to the individual qualities of the top housing, the use of nylon ensures that there is a familiar warmth and depth to both switches, making them appealing for different types of keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch to the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Royal features a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating a medium-heavy typing experience that some may prefer for added tactile feedback and a more substantial feel during use. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which positions it in the medium-light category, making it more suitable for those who favor prolonged typing sessions or require a less strenuous keypress. As a result, while the Box Royal will provide a firmer feel, the Magnetic Jade offers ease of use, particularly beneficial for extended gaming or work tasks. Overall, the Kailh Box Royal is the heavier option, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the lighter choice, catering to different user preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, we find that the Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Magnetic Jade is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This minor difference means that for users who favor quicker response times, the Magnetic Jade would be the preferable option due to its shorter travel distance. However, the Kailh Box Royal, with its longer travel distance, might appeal more to those who enjoy a more substantial feel and depth in their key presses. Overall, the choice between the two switches may hinge on personal preferences regarding responsiveness and feel, with the Kailh Box Royal offering a more pronounced tactile experience and the Magnetic Jade providing a quicker actuation for gaming enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25, whereas the Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00.
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 sound produced by the Kailh Box Royal switches is characterized by a high-pitched profile, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each keypress. This makes them an excellent option for users who prefer a sound that doesn't lean towards the deep, bass-heavy tones found in other switch types. The bright and clacky sound of the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches presents a different acoustic experience, ideal for those looking for a lively auditory backdrop while typing. This increase in brightness can elevate the overall typing experience, making each keystroke feel exciting and engaging. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound profile can still be influenced by factors such as choice of keyboard plate material and keycap design.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Royal switches are known for their sharp tactile response, providing an intense and prominent tactile bump that is felt distinctly with every keystroke. This sharp tactility enhances the typing experience, as users receive immediate feedback that can improve typing accuracy and satisfaction. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches lack a provided description of their tactile feel, which leaves some uncertainty regarding their tactile characteristics. Without specific details, it’s difficult to compare their tactile feedback directly to the pronounced tactility of the Box Royals.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Box Royals leaning towards a high-pitched sound and the Magnetic Jade providing a brighter, clacky acoustic profile. The Box Royals deliver a sharply tactile feel, while the tactile qualities of the Magnetic Jade switches remain unspecified, leaving an unknown in that aspect. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences regarding sound and feel, allowing users to choose based on their specific typing style and auditory taste.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Kailh Box Royal tactile switches and Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches largely depends on your typing preferences and use case. If you crave a pronounced tactile feedback with a sharper, more aggressive bump, the Box Royal is undoubtedly the right choice for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force and high-pitched sound profile make it suitable for typists who enjoy a decisive keystroke that enhances their typing rhythm. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bright, clacky sound and a softer actuation, the Magnetic Jade is designed to elevate your typing experience, particularly if you're upgrading a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. The lower bottom-out force allows for quicker typing without straining your fingers, making it ideal for both gaming and long hours of work. Ultimately, your decision should align with your tactile preferences and the kind of acoustic feedback you enjoy while typing, ensuring a satisfying typing experience tailored to your needs.
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