Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish stand out as popular options for different reasons. The Box Mute Jade is perfect for those who enjoy the crunchy feel of a clicky switch but prefer a more subdued sound profile. With a slight bump and a quieter clicky sound, this switch falls under the categories of 'Accented', 'Crunchy', 'Stiff', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch from Gateron's sub-brand offers a tactile experience with a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an accessible price point. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Stepped', and 'Snappy', the EF Grayish switch is a solid default tactile option. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. This similarity in top housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent sound experience when using either switch.
On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade and EverFree Grayish switches diverge when it comes to their bottom housings. The Box Mute Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the crispness of polycarbonate. Conversely, the EverFree Grayish also features a nylon bottom housing, offering users a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, while the top housings of both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Gateron EverFree Grayish switches are made of polycarbonate, their bottom housings differ in material, with both utilizing nylon. This variation in bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, while the top housing material will influence the sound when keys are released. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences and typing experiences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that the Box Mute Jade switch is heavier compared to the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch. The Box Mute Jade has an actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, indicating a strong push feel for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch, suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the heavier actuation force of the Box Mute Jade switch would be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Box Mute Jade has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EverFree Grayish. The shorter travel distance of the EverFree Grayish may provide a faster response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value quick reactions. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Box Mute Jade may offer a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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 and satisfying crunchy sound that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, making it a pleasant tactile experience for those who enjoy a clicky switch without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users due to its moderate actuation force requirement and moderate sound level. Ultimately, the sound experience of these switches will be influenced by various factors like keyboard construction and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch is characterized by its accented tactility, stiff actuation requiring more force, and a polished finish contributing to a smooth and refined typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offers a stepped tactile feel with two distinct stages and a snappy responsiveness, enhancing the typing dynamics for users seeking a more lively and controlled feedback. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences catering to different preferences, whether you prefer a stronger tactile feedback or a more subtle, stepped sensation.
Overall, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with a choice based on their preferences for tactility and sound levels. While the Box Mute Jade excels in delivering a nuanced clicky sound with a crunchy tactile response, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a more neutral sound profile and stepped tactile feel for a versatile typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to a range of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, consider your preferences for feel and sound. If you enjoy a heavy, accented, and polished typing experience with a quieter clicky sound profile, the Box Mute Jade is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight, stepped, and snappy tactile feel with a neutral sound signature, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the type of sound and feel you prefer in your mechanical keyboard switches.
Mentioned in this article
