Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Akko V3 Cream Black Pro offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that provides a satisfying crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback without the loud noise typically associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch that stands out for its budget-friendly price point while still delivering high-quality performance. With a unique poppy and clacky sound and remarkable smoothness, these switches are perfect for those seeking a silky typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial 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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same material for their top housing, they may differ in terms of their overall sound profile based on other factors such as stem design and spring weight.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Despite the similarities in using nylon for the bottom housing, the specific design and construction of each switch may still lead to variations in sound and feel during use.
Overall, while the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Akko V3 Cream Black Pro share similarities in their housing materials, such as polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the specific design and construction of each switch can still impact the overall typing experience. Differences in stem design, spring weight, and housing construction can lead to variations in sound profile, feel, and overall performance, even when using similar materials. Therefore, while both switches may offer comparable results in terms of housing materials, individual preferences and typing styles may ultimately determine which switch is the better fit for each user.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch differ significantly in terms of weight. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the V3 Cream Black Pro is lighter, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it suitable for longer typing sessions and gaming. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, while those seeking a heavier push feel may opt for the Kailh Box Mute Jade. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offer slightly different travel distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Cream Black Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular. This means that for those looking for a faster response time, either switch would provide a similar result. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper keypress, you may find the Box Mute Jade to be more to your liking with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and response of the keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 crunchy and subdued sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch provides a high-pitched and crisp sound when pressed, ideal for those who prefer a sharper sound profile. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Box Mute Jade being quieter but still clicky, while the V3 Cream Black Pro delivers a poppy and clacky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Box Mute Jade offers an accented and stiff typing experience, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined keypress. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch is creamy and bouncy, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation with spring-like feedback. Similar to the Box Mute Jade, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch also boasts a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box Mute Jade provides a more subdued and crunchy sound with a slightly bumped and stiff feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro delivers a poppy and clacky sound with a creamy and bouncy typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, newcomers to mechanical keyboards can choose between these switches to find their ideal typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a satisfyingly crunchy clicky switch with a more subtle sound profile, then the Kailh Box Mute Jade would be a great choice for you. The heavier bottom out force of 82 grams provides a solid typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery linear switch with a poppy and clacky sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro would be more up your alley. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, these switches offer a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as both switches excel in different aspects.
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