Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Darling offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that provides a crunchy feel with a quieter 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 KTT Darling is a linear switch that offers a chewy and substantial typing sensation, paired with a bouncy and responsive feel to each keystroke. While both switches offer unique characteristics, such as the accented and crunchy feel of the Box Mute Jade and the bouncy and high-pitched sound of the Darling, it ultimately depends on personal preference when choosing the best switch for your typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Darling, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound. Despite using the same materials for their housing, the distribution of these qualities may vary between the switches.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the impact of this material on the sound profile may differ based on the specific design of each switch. The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Darling may exhibit similar qualities in terms of sharpness and clarity, but the distribution of these characteristics between the top and bottom housing can vary the overall typing experience. The distinct sound profiles produced by the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing of each switch offer users a unique tactile and auditory feedback, catering to individual preferences in typing feel and sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Darling will depend on the user's preference for specific sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches offer sharp, high-pitched sounds with their polycarbonate top housing and deep, full sounds with their nylon bottom housing, the distribution of these qualities may vary between the switches. Users looking for a more resonant and clear sound with a switch that features RGB lighting may prefer the Kailh Box Mute Jade, while those seeking a deeper and fuller sound profile may lean towards the KTT Darling. Whether the differences in housing materials impact the overall typing experience remains a subjective evaluation based on personal preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the KTT Darling linear switch offer different experiences for users. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams and bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more robust typing experience. In comparison, the Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch. Those who enjoy typing for extended periods may appreciate the lighter Darling switch, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier Box Mute Jade switch. Overall, the contrasting forces of these switches cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for those who prefer quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distances for faster feedback during intense gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more tactile feel, the Box Mute Jade may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for a more immediate response, the Darling switch could be the ideal choice. Either way, both switches offer a balance between responsiveness and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a crunchy and subdued sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Darling linear switch produces a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound that is sharp and engaging. The Darling switch provides a more pronounced auditory feedback compared to the Box Mute Jade, making it a better option for those who enjoy a more lively and resonant typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade switch provides an accented, stiff, and polished typing sensation, offering a medium tactile feedback with a smooth and refined finish. Conversely, the KTT Darling switch offers a bouncy and springy feel, giving users a more elastic and responsive typing experience. The Darling switch's pronounced bounciness adds a lively touch to each keystroke, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more dynamic typing feel.
Overall, if you enjoy a quieter and more subdued typing experience with a distinct tactile bump, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a more engaging and lively typing feel with pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound, the KTT Darling linear switch would be the better option. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that provides a crunchy clicky sound with a more subdued profile, then the Kailh Box Mute Jade is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that offers a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness, the KTT Darling would be more suitable for you. Consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, whether you enjoy the crunchy click of the Box Mute Jade or the bouncy feel of the Darling, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing experiences.
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