Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch and are torn between a clicky switch and a linear switch, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver are two options worth considering. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a crunchy feel and a more subdued sound profile. It provides a satisfying tactile bump while maintaining a quieter clicky sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is a linear switch from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro line-up, designed specifically for gaming. These switches offer exceptional value and deliver lightning-fast responsiveness with their shorter travel distance. They also feature vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch, enhancing both the visual and auditory elements of your gaming sessions. While these general pointers set the stage for your decision-making process, let's dive deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch to help you determine which one is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver have similar housing materials in terms of their top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is mainly due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which promotes a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
However, the key difference lies in their bottom housings. The Box Mute Jade features a nylon bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes the same material. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound, providing a contrasting experience compared to the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housings.
When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. As such, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound from the Box Mute Jade due to its nylon bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver will provide a sharper and crisper sound due to the polycarbonate top housing.
In summary, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver share the use of polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. However, their difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the choice between these switches ultimately depends on the desired sound profile and user preference.
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 Silver linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The Box Mute Jade switch has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the Box Mute Jade switch has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch's bottom out force of 50 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch would be a suitable choice as it requires less force to trigger keystrokes and bottom out. This can be beneficial for individuals who need to type for extended periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Box Mute Jade switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This can appeal to users who prefer a stronger push feel while typing.
It is important to consider one's personal preferences and requirements when selecting a switch, as weight plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. Opting for a lighter switch like the G Pro 3.0 Silver can provide increased comfort during prolonged use, while those seeking a more tactile and forceful typing sensation may find the Box Mute Jade switch to be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Mute Jade offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while a 3.0 mm travel distance is the most shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become prevalent, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade is a good choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt and may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm offered by the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, which provides a sense of greater depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for responsiveness or a more substantial typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 switch offers a unique experience with a subtle clicky sound. It is often described as "crunchy," reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch has a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, giving it a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Additionally, it is described as thocky, providing a satisfying sound akin to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch delivers an accented tactile experience. This means that it offers a medium level of tactility without being too overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, it is considered stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom out. The polished finish of the switch contributes to smooth and refined key travel, resulting in a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless and effortless typing sensation, allowing your fingers to glide across the keys with ease.
Considering all the available information, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy clicky sound and an accented and stiff tactile feel. It is best suited for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of clicky switches with a more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound along with a buttery and creamy feel. This switch is ideal for gamers seeking lightning-fast responsiveness and a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as the specific application or use case. However, it is worth mentioning that both switches offer unique and satisfying experiences in their respective categories, and you can expect similar results if you are specifically looking for a particular sound or feel mentioned.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you value a heavy bottom-out force and enjoy the distinct crunchy feeling and quieter clicky sound of a switch, then the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light bottom-out force, lightning-fast responsiveness for gaming, and a distinctive bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch would be the ideal option. Additionally, if you prefer an accented, stiff, and polished feel, the Box Mute Jade would provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver would offer a buttery, creamy typing experience with smooth and fluid keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and intended use.