Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offer distinctly different experiences. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch perfect for those who enjoy a crunchy feel with a quieter sound profile. In contrast, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that provides a more budget-friendly option while still offering a satisfying poppy, clacky sound and smoothness. The Box Mute Jade is categorized as 'Accented', 'Crunchy', 'Stiff', 'Polished', while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, one significant similarity stands out: both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it ideal for users who prioritize aesthetic customization. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Box Mute Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar acoustic qualities in terms of creating a muted, rounder sound.
The use of nylon for the bottom housings of both switches may result in a more consistent typing experience, as the softer nature of this material absorbs sound and creates a fuller sound profile. However, the split between the top and bottom housing materials of the switches also plays a role in how the typing experience is perceived. Pressing down on these switches will reveal the characteristics of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. The impact of the top housing material will be more noticeable when releasing a key, influencing the sound profile during key release moments.
Despite their differences in bottom housing materials, both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offer a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles attributed to their housing materials. Whether it be the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the top housing or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon in the bottom housing, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and how each material contributes to the overall typing feel.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams and a higher bottom out force of 82 grams compared to the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Box Mute Jade clicky switch would provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch would be lighter and more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have different characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for keyboard users. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for a more comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, slightly longer than the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch with a travel distance of 3.3mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, which can provide a more responsive typing experience. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for quicker keystrokes, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Box Mute Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 offers a unique sound profile described as "crunchy" reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, providing a quieter yet unmistakably clicky experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy, clacky sound right out of the box, ideal for those seeking a vibrant auditory experience. When it comes to feel, the Box Mute Jade is characterized by an accented tactile feedback, stiffness requiring more force to actuate, and a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is known for being easy-to-press, feathery in touch, bouncy and snappy, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. In conclusion, while the Box Mute Jade and V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches offer different sound and feel experiences, both switches are engineered to enhance the typing experience for users looking for distinct qualities in their mechanical keyboards. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can deliver satisfying results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, it comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier actuation force and a more subdued clicky sound, then the Box Mute Jade would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth linear feel with a poppy sound, then the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the way to go. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and tactile feedback to determine which switch suits your needs best. Happy typing!
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