Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch to the Durock Daybreak linear switch, it becomes clear that each switch offers unique advantages tailored to different preferences. The Box Mute Jade is perfect for those who enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a clicky switch but prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak provides a heavier typing experience with a linear feel and quiet operation, making it ideal for scenarios where noise is a concern. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to specific needs and preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Durock Daybreak, one key similarity is that they both feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Box Mute Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Daybreak also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar acoustic experience to the Box Mute Jade.
In terms of sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of both switches plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This difference can be felt when pressing down on the switch, as the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. However, when it comes to the sound when releasing a key, the top housing material becomes more prominent. In this case, the polycarbonate top housing of both the Box Mute Jade and the Daybreak influences the sound profile when the key is released.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Durock Daybreak will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience. Both switches offer a unique combination of housing materials that affect the acoustics in different ways. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing or the deeper, fuller sound provided by the nylon bottom housing, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, it is clear that the Box Mute Jade is the heavier of the two with an actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams. On the other hand, the Daybreak has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, with the actuation force being unknown. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Daybreak for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier feel of the Box Mute Jade for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Daybreak has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Mute Jade. The difference of 0.2 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the Box Mute Jade would be the more suitable option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced key press with a bit more depth, the Daybreak switch with its longer travel distance might be more appealing to you. 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 Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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 unique crunchy sound that is reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound profile, perfect for quiet workspaces. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Box Mute Jade delivering a more distinct clicky sound while the Daybreak offers a softer and quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, both the Box Mute Jade and the Daybreak switches are described as polished, providing smooth and refined key travel. The Box Mute Jade offers an accented and stiff typing experience with a subtle tactile bump, while the Daybreak offers a heftier 67g actuation force for those who prefer a more significant touch. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and frictionless typing experience, making them ideal choices for users who value comfort and precision in their keyboard switches.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy clicky sound and a stiff, accented feel, while the Daybreak offers a muted, low-pitched sound and a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer exceptional performance and comfort for various typing needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a clicky switch with a distinctive sound or a linear switch with a quiet operation and a heavier touch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile and clicky switch with a heavier bottom out force and a distinctive sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a quiet operation, the Durock Daybreak linear switch would be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience, noise level, and overall feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider these factors before making your selection.
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