Kailh Box Jade vs. Kailh Box Mute Jade

Overview

If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a satisfying typing experience with a clicky sound profile, you may have come across two popular options: the Kailh Box Jade and the Kailh Box Mute Jade. The Box Jade is known for its medium-heavy typing experience, with crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, making it ideal for individuals who value a high-pitched and invigorating typing feel. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade offers a similar crunchy feel but with a more subdued sound profile. It provides a quieter clicky sound signature while still maintaining a noticeable tactile bump. Both switches have their distinct characteristics, but if you're looking for a switch with a medium-heavy feel and a pronounced click, the Box Jade might be your best bet. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch would be the perfect fit for you.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The Kailh Box Jade and the Kailh Box Mute Jade have similar housing materials in terms of their top housing, both of which are made of polycarbonate. This choice of material enhances the sound profile of the switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through effectively. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when comparing the two switches.

However, the main point of contrast between the switches lies in their bottom housing material. The Box Jade features a nylon bottom housing, while the Box Mute Jade also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a duller and rounder sound when typing on both of these switches. This difference in material highlights that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.

Overall, while the top housing of the Kailh Box Jade and the Kailh Box Mute Jade is identical, their contrasting bottom housing materials result in differences in sound characteristics. The Box Jade's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing creates a similar effect. This distinction is important to consider as it can impact the overall typing experience and personal preference. Ultimately, users can choose between the two switches based on their desired sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, there are significant differences to consider. The Box Jade has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. In contrast, the Box Mute Jade requires a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those who prefer it. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Box Jade is 60 grams, while the Box Mute Jade has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams. This means that typing on the Box Mute Jade switch will feel more solid and require more force to fully press the keys. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Box Jade, which allows for more extended periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more robust and substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the heavier actuation and bottom out forces offered by the Box Mute Jade switch. Overall, while both switches provide clicky feedback and actuation mechanisms, the Box Mute Jade offers a heavier and more forceful typing experience compared to the lighter Box Jade.

Travel distance

Both the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and typing experience provided by both switches. Whether you prefer the audible clickiness of the Box Jade or the quieter operation of the Box Mute Jade, you can enjoy the same consistent travel distance for accurate and satisfying typing.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Jade switch produces a high-pitched and crunchy sound when pressed. The sharp and crisp sound of the Box Jade switch is perfect for those who prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch also offers a crunchy sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. However, the sound is more subdued compared to the Box Jade switch. This makes it a great choice for individuals who enjoy the crunchy feel of a clicky switch but prefer a quieter sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both the Kailh Box Jade and Box Mute Jade switches provide an accented tactile experience. An accented switch refers to a tactile switch that offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. This means that users can expect a noticeable tactile bump when typing on both switches. The Box Jade switch is further described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. This creates an immersive typing sensation for the user. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade switch is described as stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and/or bottom-out compared to other switches. This means that users will need to apply more force when pressing the keys with these switches. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade switch is also polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience.

Overall, the Kailh Box Jade and Box Mute Jade switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Box Jade switch is characterized by its high-pitched sound and invigorating feel, providing a medium-heavy typing experience with crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade switch offers a more subdued sound profile while maintaining the crunchy feel. With its accented and polished characteristics, it provides a medium tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, along with a stiffer actuation force. Both switches have their own unique qualities, allowing users to choose the one that aligns with their preferences. However, it is worth noting that the overall experience will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, by selecting either switch, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel while enjoying their preferred level of clickiness and tactility.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you want a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and a pronounced tactile feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is the perfect choice for you. You'll enjoy the crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps when typing on them. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound profile while still enjoying the crunchy feel of a clicky switch, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is the way to go. With this switch, you'll experience a slight bump and a quieter, yet unmistakably clicky sound. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. Whether you prioritize a heavier or medium bottom out force, a high-pitched or more subdued sound, or an invigorating or polished feel, both switches offer unique advantages. So, carefully consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best aligns with your desired typing experience.

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