Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red

Overview

If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may be deciding between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch known for its crunchy feel and more subdued sound profile. With a slight bump and a quieter click, it offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch that aims to deliver a smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, it features a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting effects and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$6.50 per 10

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red have several similarities. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, creating a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Consequently, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from both switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.

However, there are some differences when it comes to the bottom housings of these two switches. The Box Mute Jade incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Red also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings can create a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to switches with other types of bottom housings.

It is important to note that the characteristics of the bottom housing have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the qualities of the top housing are more noticeable when releasing a key. Therefore, while the top housings of both switches contribute to their overall sound profiles and aesthetics, the differences in their respective bottom housings may result in slightly varying typing experiences and overall sound quality.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is evident that they differ significantly in terms of weight. The Kailh Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the Kailh Box Mute Jade has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams.

For those seeking a lighter switch option, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be more suitable. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for a lighter typing experience, which can be preferred for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This can be beneficial for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel while typing.

Both switches have their advantages depending on the user's preference. If someone prefers a lighter typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be the ideal choice. However, for those who value a stronger and more substantial typing feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade with its heavier forces would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's personal preference and their desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the more traditional 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Red. The shorter travel distance of the Box Mute Jade may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter distances allow for quicker key presses. On the other hand, some users may find the shorter travel distance too abrupt and prefer the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Red, which provides a more hearty depth when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for either a more responsive or a more substantial feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is described as having a crunchy sound profile, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is labeled as having a neutral sound profile, with a moderate sound level that suits various purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Box Mute Jade switch is described as an accented switch with medium tactility, providing a noticeable amount of tactile feedback without being overwhelming or subtle. It is also considered to be stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom out. In addition, the switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.

The G Pro 3.0 Red switch, on the other hand, is described as creamy and mild. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, likely due to factory lubrication or specific materials used. The switch provides a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. Similar to the Box Mute Jade, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. It is worth mentioning that the switch is silky, meaning it enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys.

In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch have different subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade switch offers a crunchy sound profile and a medium-tactile, stiff, and polished feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch features a neutral sound profile and a creamy, mild, and polished feel. While they provide distinct experiences, if you are looking for a quieter clicky switch similar to the Box Mute Jade, you can achieve similar results with the Gateron G Pro Red switch due to its moderate sound profile.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you enjoy the satisfying sound of a clicky switch but prefer a quieter experience, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 82 grams, these switches provide a heavier feel which can be beneficial for those who prefer a more tactile and pronounced typing experience. The crunchy sound profile of the Box Mute Jade switch creates the sensation of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy leaves, adding a unique sensory experience to your typing. On the other hand, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth and gentle typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is the way to go. With a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches strike a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The creamy and silky feel of the G Pro 3.0 Red switch ensures that your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys, making typing a pleasurable experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for sound and feel, whether you prefer a pronounced clicky sound and a heavier feel or a smoother and gentler typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more