Kailh Box Royal vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box Royal and the Wuque Studio WS Jade offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Box Royal is renowned for its sharply defined tactile feedback, delivering an almost aggressive tactile bump that ensures each keystroke is both pronounced and satisfying. This switch's higher-pitched sound profile adds an auditory layer of excitement for typists who enjoy a more pronounced and responsive feel. On the other hand, the WS Jade is celebrated for its smooth, creamy typing experience, enhanced by a metallic insert in the stem that produces a bright and resonant sound. Its light diffuser not only creates a stunning RGB display but also contributes to an overall experience that is clacky and marbly, making it ideal for users seeking a gentler, more fluid keystroke. While both switches offer unique advantages—whether it's the Box Royal's impressive tactility or the Jade's silky smoothness—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and Wuque Studio WS Jade switches utilize different materials for their housings, which significantly influences their auditory characteristics and typing experiences. The Box Royal is constructed with a nylon top and bottom housing, a classic material favored for its sound-absorbing properties. This nylon creates a sound profile that is deeper and fuller, more muted compared to harder plastics. Because nylon is softer, it can absorb more sound waves, resulting in a more rounded acoustical signature when typing. In contrast, the WS Jade incorporates a POM top and bottom housing, a material known for providing a distinct sound that is also on the deeper side, yet exhibits a unique tonal quality. While both switches emphasize a subdued acoustic profile, the POM material may provide a crisper sound resonance, leading to subtler differences in typing feedback and auditory experience.
The implications of the housing materials extend to how each switch behaves during use. For the Box Royal, both housings are made of nylon, which means the sound and feel are uniformly muted throughout the keypress, providing a consistent auditory experience from the bottom-out to the release phase. In contrast, the WS Jade switches, with POM for both top and bottom housing, produce a more unique sound when the key is released. The impact of POM at the top housing may lend a slightly more pronounced release sound, contrasting with the muted depth provided during bottom-out. Thus, while both switches aim for a deeper sound profile, their differing materials affect not only the sound but also the sensory perception when typing.
Ultimately, while the Box Royal and WS Jade switches employ different materials, the end results—namely a deeper and fuller acoustical experience—can still appear quite similar. Users looking for a rich auditory feedback during typing may find satisfaction in both switches, as both nylon and POM contribute significantly to sound absorption and muted qualities. It is important to consider, however, that the nuances in sound and the tactile experience while engaging each switch may lead to preferences among typists, particularly those inclined towards specific sound profiles or typing sensations inherent to the materials used in the housings. While they may share a common design objective, the variations in housing materials lead to distinct shifts in sound and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, we find notable differences in their characteristics. The Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch that provides a noticeable tactile feedback. In contrast, the WS Jade boasts a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams but has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while the Box Royal requires slightly less force to actuate, it demands more force to bottom out compared to the WS Jade. Consequently, the Box Royal may feel easier to press for longer typing sessions, while the WS Jade might appeal to users preferring a heavier initial actuation with a softer landing. Overall, the Box Royal is the lighter option in terms of actuation force, whereas the WS Jade is heavier but provides a lighter bottoming out experience.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this regard. Since their travel distances are the same, users can expect a similar keypress experience in terms of the depth and feel when engaging with either switch. This characteristic allows for a consistent typing feel, whether one is opting for the tactile response of the Box Royal or the smoothness of the WS Jade.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch presents a high-pitched auditory experience that delivers a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. This makes for a distinct and pronounced typing ambiance, perfect for users who prefer a more elevated tone that cuts through ambient noise. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch boasts a more multifaceted sound profile, featuring clacky and marbly qualities. The inclusion of a metallic insert in its stem base creates a bright, resonant sound that is both clean and sharp, enhancing the auditory delight of each press. Overall, while both switches produce high-pitched sounds, the WS Jade’s complexity lies in its clacky and resonant characteristics, providing a more dynamic auditory experience compared to the straightforward sharpness of the Box Royal.
In terms of feel, the Box Royal excels with its sharply defined tactile feedback, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump that is keenly felt with each keypress. This intense tactile response makes it perfect for typists who thrive on feedback and enjoy an active typing sensation. Conversely, the WS Jade linear switch delivers a silky, creamy feel that promotes a smooth and effortless typing experience. The luxuriousness of the keystrokes gives an impression of ease as fingers glide over the keys, thanks to its construction and potential use of lubrication. While the tactile feedback of the Box Royal might suit those who enjoy clear tactile definition, the WS Jade appeals to those seeking a beautifully smooth and flowing typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and Wuque Studio WS Jade switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences ideal for different preferences. The high-pitched sound of the Box Royal is straightforward and sharp, catering to users who prefer an unambiguous auditory cue, while the WS Jade provides a richer and more resonant sound profile that includes clacky and marbly elements for added excitement. In terms of feel, the Box Royal's sharp tactility is perfect for those wanting a pronounced feedback, whereas the WS Jade’s creamy and silky nature caters to users who favor a smoother keystroke. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a smooth typing sensation, as well as the sound profile that most aligns with your preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switches and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize an aggressive tactile feedback that provides a distinct and sharp bump with each keystroke, then the Box Royal is the way to go. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams makes it ideal for typists who enjoy a firmer press and a higher-pitched, crisp sound profile. On the other hand, if you're seeking a smoother, nearly buttery typing experience, the WS Jade’s medium 60-gram actuation and its unique metallic resonance will provide you with a creamy feel that minimizes resistance while typing. Additionally, if the sound is a key factor for you, the Jades offer a clacky, marbly resonance paired with brilliant RGB lighting diffusion, making each keystroke a visually and acoustically satisfying experience. In short, choose the Box Royals for a more tactile and assertive typing adventure, while the WS Jades will charm you with their silky smoothness and enchanting sound.
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