Dareu Aqua vs. Kailh Box Mute Jade
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offer unique characteristics to consider. The Dareu Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is easy to press and feels feathery. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade offers a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, featuring a slight bump and a quieter clicky sound. While the Aqua switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch, the Box Mute Jade switch is perfect for individuals who enjoy a clicky switch with a less pronounced sound. 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
37g
Actuation force
75g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and Kailh Box Mute Jade utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. A unique feature of polycarbonate is its translucency, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This allows for a visually appealing experience coupled with the distinct auditory characteristics of the material. The similarity in top housing material between the Aqua and Box Mute Jade ensures that both switches deliver a similar sound profile with a focus on clarity and resonance.
In contrast, the Dareu Aqua features a nylon bottom housing that generates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer nature compared to other plastics, which allows it to absorb more sound and produce a duller, rounder sound. This is in direct opposition to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the top housing, providing a contrasting tactile and auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the switch's ability to elicit a deep and full sound profile. Despite the difference in top housing material, the common use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches offer a softer and more absorbent sound experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Dareu Aqua and Kailh Box Mute Jade plays a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of these switches. The split between polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings respectively allows for a nuanced auditory and tactile experience. The characteristics of each material come together to create a unique typing sensation, with the top housing impacting sound upon release of a key and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether it is the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller tone of nylon, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, it is clear that the Aqua is much lighter than the Box Mute Jade. The Aqua has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it a lighter option for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. In contrast, the Box Mute Jade has an actuation force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those who enjoy a heavier typing experience. The bottom out force for the Aqua is unknown, while the Box Mute Jade has a bottom out force of 82 grams, further highlighting its heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force, with the Aqua offering a lighter touch and the Box Mute Jade offering a heavier, more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, the Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Box Mute Jade's 3.6 mm. The Aqua's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper keypress feel, while the Box Mute Jade's 3.6 mm distance offers a slightly shallower keypress. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box Mute Jade for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may prefer the Aqua. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to individual preferences for keyboard usage.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
The Kailh Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50 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 Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sounds, giving it a distinctive character that stands out. The chirpy sound adds a little squeak, while the clacky sound provides a sharp and snappy quality. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is known for its quieter yet unmistakably clicky sound profile, with a crunchy feel reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. Sound preference ultimately comes down to personal taste and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature and feathery touch. The light actuation force of 37g makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. The Kailh Box Mute Jade switch, on the other hand, is described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it has a stiff feel, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out. The polished finish of the switch ensures smooth key travel, enhancing the typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a light and unique sound profile, along with an easy-to-press and feathery feel. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch provides a quieter clicky sound with a crunchy feel, along with a prominent level of tactility and a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Regardless of your decision, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile, the Dareu Aqua may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier bottom out force and a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade could be the perfect fit. Consider your typing needs, desired sound profile, and tactile preferences when selecting between these two switches to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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