Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch but feeling overwhelmed by the countless options available? Look no further, as we compare and contrast two popular choices: the Kailh Box Mute Jade, a clicky switch, and the Gateron CM, a linear switch. If you prefer the satisfying crunch and tactile feedback of a clicky switch, the Box Mute Jade is your ideal choice. It offers a more subdued sound profile, perfect for those who value a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch that provides an effortlessly smooth typing journey, the CM is the one for you. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer a rich, deep sound signature and deliver a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron CM differ in their housing materials, with the Box Mute Jade featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the CM utilizes a nylon material for both the top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Mute Jade creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the CM's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of the polycarbonate top housing makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, whereas the CM's nylon top housing lacks this feature.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Box Mute Jade and the CM utilize nylon material. This results in a similar typing experience, as nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, whether using the Box Mute Jade or the CM, typists can expect a similar feel and sound when pressing down on the switches.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing plays a bigger role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that while the Box Mute Jade's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing create a more resonant and clear sound, the CM's nylon top and bottom housing contribute to a fuller and rounder sound experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, it becomes evident that the Box Mute Jade switch is relatively heavier. The Box Mute Jade requires a hefty 75 grams of force to activate, while the CM only needs 55 grams. This implies that the CM switch would provide a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the Box Mute Jade. Similarly, in terms of bottoming out, the Box Mute Jade switch requires 82 grams of force, whereas the CM switch requires 63.5 grams. Although both switches fall into the medium-heavy category for bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade switch still remains on the heavier side.
Considering the weight of the switches, it is crucial to acknowledge that different individuals have varying preferences. Some prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods without fatigue, making it ideal for workplace or lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, the Box Mute Jade switch would cater more to their preferences. Despite the difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches, they still offer similar characteristics that grant a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly varying levels of force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron CM linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. Therefore, if you were to press down on a key with either switch, you would get similar results as they both have the same distance to travel from the top to the bottom.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is best known for its crunchy feel and more subdued sound profile. When using these switches, there is a slight bump in feel and a quieter, yet unmistakably clicky, sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, resulting in a richer and deeper sound profile. Complemented by a factory lube job, these switches offer an effortlessly smooth typing experience, giving a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. The CM switches also feature a lengthened, dual-staged spring, providing a bouncy typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a crunchy sound, resembling the crisp and crunchy sound of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a bassy sound with a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness of bass tones. It can also produce a thocky sound, characterized by a deep and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when the key is pressed and released. Additionally, the CM switches have a low-pitched tone, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is described as accented, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is also noted as stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches. The switch is further enhanced by its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It has a polished finish as well, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the CM switches are also described as creamy, providing a silky sensation and effortless keystrokes due to lubricant applied at the factory. They are also referred to as frictionless, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is characterized by its crunchy feel and subdued sound profile, offering a tactile and stiff typing experience with a medium amount of tactility. The Gateron CM linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its rich and deep sound profile, providing a smooth and buttery keystroke experience with a polished finish. While they differ in sound and feel, both switches promise a unique typing journey suitable for different preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you enjoy the satisfying feel of a clicky switch and prefer a quieter sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches are a great choice for you. These switches offer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more robust typing experience. The crunchy sound they produce is reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, adding a unique tactile and auditory sensation to your typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more buttery typing experience with a deeper and richer sound, the Gateron CM linear switches would be ideal for you. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches glide effortlessly and smoothly with each keystroke. The bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile they offer adds a sense of depth and richness to your typing, creating a pleasant auditory feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences. If you value a clicky switch with a subdued sound, go for the Kailh Box Mute Jade. If you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a deep and rich sound, opt for the Gateron CM linear switches. Consider the desired sound and feel you want to achieve and choose accordingly. Happy typing!
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