Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, there are two options worth considering: the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White. On one hand, the Box Mute Jade provides a unique experience with its clicky nature but subdued sound profile. This switch offers a satisfying tactile bump and a quieter click, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy the crunchiness of a clicky switch without the noise. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White boasts a linear design that caters to delicate typists. With an impressively light actuation force of only 38g, these switches ensure effortless and sensitive keystrokes. Additionally, the G Pro White's medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches offer their own set of advantages, 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
38g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is particularly useful if you plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound and appearance due to their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to their bottom housings, there is a notable difference. The Box Mute Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White also features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Box Mute Jade.
Overall, while the top housings of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White offer similar characteristics in terms of sound and aesthetics, their bottom housings differ. The Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing produces a different sound experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 White. The choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound profile, with the Box Mute Jade offering a potentially deeper and rounder sound due to its nylon bottom housing.
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 White linear switch, it is evident that they have distinct differences. The Box Mute Jade switch boasts a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, which means a stronger push is required to initiate a keystroke. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a much lighter actuation force of 38 grams, allowing for a more effortless typing experience. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Box Mute Jade switch has a heavier force requirement of 82 grams, whereas the G Pro 3.0 White switch has a more gentle bottom out force of 45 grams.
It is worth considering the weight of the switches as lighter options are preferred by those who need to type for extended periods, such as at work or during long gaming sessions. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the G Pro 3.0 White switch make it ideal for these situations. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a more substantial typing experience and favor switches with heavier forces. In this case, the Box Mute Jade switch would be the suitable choice due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
In summary, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch have contrasting actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Mute Jade switch is notably heavier, while the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a lighter typing experience. Those looking for a more effortless and lighter switch option would gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 White, whereas individuals seeking a stronger push and a more substantial typing feel would lean towards the Box Mute Jade switch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White. The shorter travel distance of the Box Mute Jade is preferred by gamers who value faster response times. This shorter distance allows for quicker key presses and thus a faster overall typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer a greater depth to their key presses. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 White with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness. If you are looking for quick and snappy key presses, the Box Mute Jade would be the better choice, while those seeking a more substantial and satisfying typing experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 White.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White 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
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is best known for its crunchy sound profile. This switch produces a distinct clicky sound that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The sound is more subdued compared to other clicky switches, offering a quieter typing experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, on the other hand, is described as clacky and neutral. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. The G Pro White switch also offers a more subdued sound signature compared to most switches. It produces a dampened sound when pressed, making it suitable for shared spaces.
In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade switch offers an accented and stiff typing experience. It provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it a medium tactile switch. The higher amount of force required to actuate and bottom-out with this switch gives it a stiff feel. The switch also has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is described as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, as if gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly. The light actuation force required makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue. These switches have a gentle resistance, making them easy on the fingers.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch provides a crunchy sound and an accented and stiff typing feel. It is best suited for those who enjoy a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, on the other hand, offers a clacky sound with a medium-high pitch. It provides a creamy and easy-to-press typing feel, making it ideal for delicate typists. While these switches have different subjective qualities, both offer unique experiences that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you enjoy the satisfying crunch and clicky sound of a keyboard switch but prefer a quieter profile, 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 typing experience. They also have an accented feel, offering a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you are a delicate typist looking for a budget-friendly option, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is an excellent selection. With a light actuation force of 45 grams, these switches offer effortless and sensitive keystrokes. They have a creamy feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. Moreover, the G Pro 3.0 White switches are easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate. This enhances the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch will depend on your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a quieter and more subdued sound with a heavier typing experience, the Box Mute Jade switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamy and easy-to-press switch with lighter actuation, the G Pro 3.0 White switches are the ideal option. Consider your typing style, noise sensitivity, and budget when making your decision.
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