Gateron Beer vs. Kailh Box Mute Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Gateron Beer switch is praised for its light and stepped tactility, providing a unique and refreshing typing experience with a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch offers a crunchy feel and a quieter clicky sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch but prefer a more subdued sound. Both switches have their strengths, with the Beer being easy to press and the Box Mute Jade feeling stiffer and more accented. 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
38g
Actuation force
75g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Kailh Box Mute Jade both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as the light can shine through the housing. While both switches share this top housing material, the Box Mute Jade differs with a nylon bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
In terms of aesthetics, switches with clear housings are more likely to be made of polycarbonate, which allows for an elegant and modern look. Both the Gateron Beer and Kailh Box Mute Jade benefit from this translucent material in their top housings, enhancing the overall appearance of the switches. However, the Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing brings a classic feel to the switch and adds to the tactile experience when typing. Despite these differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile feedback that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience is significant, with the qualities of each material affecting different aspects of the switch. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, making the nylon bottom housing of the Box Mute Jade an important component in creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, highlighting the importance of the polycarbonate top housing in producing a sharp and resonant sound when typing on the Gateron Beer. Overall, the housing materials contribute to the unique characteristics of each switch, catering to various typing preferences and providing a distinct typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch which has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams. Similarly, the Beer's bottom out force of 50 grams is lighter than the Box Mute Jade's bottom out force of 82 grams. The difference in force between the two switches is significant, with the Beer being much lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Box Mute Jade. For those who prefer a softer touch and a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Beer switch would be the better option. However, for users who prefer a firmer and more substantial typing feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch would be a more suitable choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Beer switch for faster response times, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Box Mute Jade switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a clacky sound profile with a sharp, snappy sound when pressed, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch delivers a quieter clicky sound, described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between them will ultimately depend on personal preference and factors such as keyboard and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a light actuation that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The stepped tactility of these switches provides a more subtle and gentle typing experience, with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. On the contrary, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is described as accented and stiff, offering a balanced tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The polished finish of these switches ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction for effortless key travel.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch provide unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Beer offers a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel with stepped tactility, the Box Mute Jade presents a quieter clicky sound with accented tactility and a polished finish. For individuals seeking a more traditional clicky experience with a subdued sound profile, the Box Mute Jade may be the better option. However, those looking for a refreshing, lightweight switch with a distinct clacky sound signature may find the Beer to be the ideal choice. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a lighter key press with a subtle tactile bump and a clacky sound, the Gateron Beer switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump, a stiffer key press, and a crunchy clicky sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and typing style, so choose the switch that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences. Happy typing!
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