Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a variety of options to consider. Two popular choices are the Kailh Box Mute Jade, a clicky switch, and the KTT Cream Yellow, a linear switch. The Box Mute Jade is best known for its crunchy feel and more subdued sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying click of a switch without the loud noise. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch is designed to deliver a distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. It also provides a uniquely bouncy typing feel, thanks to its lengthened spring.
Overall, choosing between these two switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a satisfying click, the Box Mute Jade may be the way to go. However, if you enjoy the clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Cream Yellow switch could be your perfect match. But, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Cream Yellow share similar housing materials in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic effects from the polycarbonate top housing of both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Box Mute Jade and Cream Yellow differ in their material choice. The Box Mute Jade features a nylon bottom housing, while the Cream Yellow also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience in terms of depth and fullness from both switches' nylon bottom housing.
When using either switch, the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials will contribute to the overall typing experience. Pressing down on the switch will showcase the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced by the polycarbonate top housing. Therefore, while the housing materials for the Box Mute Jade and Cream Yellow may differ in the bottom housing, users can expect similar results in terms of sound dynamics and overall typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, it is clear that there are notable differences. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, while the Cream Yellow requires a lighter force of 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade is again on the heavier side with 82 grams, while the Cream Yellow has a more moderate force of 58 grams.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cream Yellow switch. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces make it conducive for longer typing sessions, making it an ideal choice for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals seeking a more substantial and stronger typing feel, the Box Mute Jade would be a suitable option. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a tactile and pronounced keystroke experience.
In terms of similarity, it can be noted that the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cream Yellow switch are both lighter compared to the Box Mute Jade. Therefore, those who prefer the lighter weight and want similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces can opt for the Cream Yellow switch. However, for individuals who prefer a heavier typing experience, the Box Mute Jade switch would fulfill their requirements better. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Box Mute Jade has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, either of these switches would provide similar results. However, for those who prefer a deeper key press, the Box Mute Jade may offer a slightly more satisfying feeling with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 subjective qualities of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch can be compared in terms of sound and feel.
Starting with sound, the Box Mute Jade is known for its crunchy sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you will experience a satisfying and distinct clicky sound that can be likened to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch produces a clacky sound. This sound is sharp and snappy, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive feedback when pressed. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Box Mute Jade providing a more subdued sound while the Cream Yellow offers a distinctively clacky sound.
Moving on to feel, the Box Mute Jade switch provides an accented tactile feel. This means that it offers a medium level of tactility that is prominent without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, it is considered stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches. The Box Mute Jade's polished finish also contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch offers a bouncy feel. This means that the keys have a lively and spring-like sensation, providing a rebound when pressed.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Box Mute Jade and Cream Yellow switches offer different experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy and subdued clicky sound with an accented tactile feel and a polished finish for smooth typing. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow offers a clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel. If you prefer a quieter, more subdued sound with a tactile feel, the Box Mute Jade is the ideal choice. If you enjoy a sharp, percussive sound and a bouncy typing experience, the Cream Yellow switch is a great option. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a heavy switch with a more subdued sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches provide a satisfying crunch when pressed, along with a quieter clicky sound. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade offers an accented feel, meaning it provides a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. These switches also have a stiff and polished feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch with a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is the way to go. With a medium bottom out force, these switches emit a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp and bright percussive feel. The Cream Yellow switches also offer a bouncy feedback sensation, providing a spring-like rebound when you press the keys.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prioritize a quieter clicky experience with medium tactility or a clacky sound with a bouncy feel, both of these switches have unique qualities to offer. Consider your desired sound and feel, and choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences.
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