Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, you have two distinct options to consider. The Box Mute Jade offers a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy clicky switches but prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese provides a smooth and pristine typing experience with an ultra-light touch, giving you a satisfying clacky sound. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
75g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the HMX Cheese, the main difference lies in the top housing material. The Box Mute Jade boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Cheese features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. While the Box Mute Jade's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Cheese's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Both the Box Mute Jade and the Cheese share nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic than polycarbonate, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile between the two switches. However, the impact of the bottom housing material on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary slightly between the switches.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the HMX Cheese will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Box Mute Jade's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the Cheese's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches share similar nylon bottom housings, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of overall sound profile. Whether you prefer a brighter and more resonant sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch are significantly higher compared to the HMX Cheese linear switch. The Box Mute Jade requires a force of 75 grams to actuate and 82 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier option. On the other hand, the Cheese only needs 43 grams to actuate and 46 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter alternative. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Cheese switch more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, individuals who appreciate a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Box Mute Jade for a stronger push experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches largely depends on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is 3.6mm, while the HMX Cheese linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their faster response times, especially among gamers. While the difference of 0.1mm may not seem significant, it can still impact the feel of the switch when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Cheese switch, while those who enjoy a slightly deeper press may prefer the Box Mute Jade switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a quick and efficient typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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 Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a unique experience with a crunchy sound profile reminiscent of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese linear switch provides a distinct clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that stands out among other switches. While the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, both switches offer clear and satisfying auditory feedback to enhance the typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Box Mute Jade is recognized for its accented tactile feedback, providing a medium level of tactility without being overly intense. Additionally, the switch requires a slightly higher actuation force, offering a stiffer typing feel. The polished finish of the switch ensures a smooth and refined keystroke, reducing friction for a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, information on the tactile feel of the HMX Cheese switch is not available.
Overall, whether you choose the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch or the HMX Cheese linear switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, allowing you to customize your keyboard to suit your typing style. With the Box Mute Jade providing a quieter clicky sound and a subtle tactile feel, and the HMX Cheese offering an ultra-light and smooth typing experience, you can achieve similar results in terms of quality and satisfaction based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier switch with a quieter clicky sound and a slight bump during typing, the Box Mute Jade may be the perfect option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth and satisfying typing experience, along with a unique clacky sound signature, the HMX Cheese could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and sound preferences. Choose the one that best suits your needs and enjoy a customized mechanical keyboard experience.
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