Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro offer unique experiences for users. The Box Mute Jade is ideal for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch but prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro provides a smooth and silent typing experience with its linear design and polycarbonate construction. If you value a more pronounced clicking sound and a stiff typing feel, the Box Mute Jade may be the switch for you. However, if you prefer a bouncy feel and a polished sound profile, the V3 Crystal Pro could be the better choice. 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
48g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This material is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. However, while the Box Mute Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the V3 Crystal Pro sticks with a polycarbonate bottom housing for consistency in sound qualities throughout the switch.
The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro results in a consistent sharp, higher-pitched, and clear sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a more resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switch housings. Conversely, the Kailh Box Mute Jade's combination of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing provides a unique typing experience. The deeper and fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing complements the sharper sound from the polycarbonate top housing, creating a balanced auditory experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro comes down to personal preference. Both switches offer a unique typing experience due to their housing materials, with the Box Mute Jade providing a mix of deeper and sharper sound profiles, while the V3 Crystal Pro maintains consistency in its sharp and clear sound. Whether you prioritize a more resonant typing sound or a crisper one, both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch are quite different. 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. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. The heavier force of the Box Mute Jade may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the lighter force of the V3 Crystal Pro is ideal for those who value a lighter touch. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their force requirements, allowing users to choose the one that best fits their typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Mute Jade. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred for faster response times, making the Box Mute Jade a good choice for gamers. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro with its slightly longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for keypress depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 is known for its crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy sound with a unique squeak, setting it apart from other switches. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, with the Box Mute Jade offering a quieter clicky sound, while the V3 Crystal Pro provides a bright and distinctive sound.
Moving on to the feel, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch is characterized as having an accented tactile feel, a stiff actuation force, and a polished finish for smooth key travel. In comparison, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback, along with a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches provide unique tactile sensations, with the Box Mute Jade offering a more pronounced bump and stiffer actuation, while the V3 Crystal Pro delivers a smoother and more elastic feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch provide different yet equally satisfying experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Box Mute Jade excels in offering a quieter clicky sound and a more accentuated tactile feel, while the V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its bright chirpy sound and bouncy sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and tactile feedback, but rest assured that both switches will deliver a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a satisfyingly crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, the Box Mute Jade would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a bright and chirpy sound, the V3 Crystal Pro might be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should be based on whether you prioritize a clicky switch or a linear switch, and whether you prefer a heavier or medium bottom out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
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