Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it's clear that each offers a unique typing experience. The Box Mute Jade is ideal for those who enjoy the tactile feedback and clicky sound of a traditional mechanical keyboard switch but prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is perfect for individuals who prefer a more subtle tactile bump and a low-pitched sound profile, allowing for a quieter and more immersive typing experience. 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
45g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the TTC Gold Brown Pro, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. The use of polycarbonate in switch housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency allows for the passage of light. The similarities in the top housing material indicate that both switches will likely produce similar sound profiles and feel when the key is pressed.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Box Mute Jade features a nylon bottom housing, while the Gold Brown Pro also utilizes nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. The differences in the bottom housing material suggest that the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch will vary.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the TTC Gold Brown Pro creates a unique sound profile for each switch. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch means that the qualities of each material will have a distinct impact on the overall sound and feel of each key press. While both switches may have similarities in their top housing material, the differences in the bottom housing material will ultimately contribute to the individual characteristics of each switch.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 75 grams compared to the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch's 45 grams. This means that the Box Mute Jade requires more force to trigger a keystroke, which may not be suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade also requires more force at 82 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the heavier forces of the Box Mute Jade to be more appealing. Ultimately, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Gold Brown Pro may allow for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while the heavier forces of the Box Mute Jade may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Box Mute Jade's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Gold Brown Pro's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their slightly varied travel distances, so users can choose based on their personal preference for key press depth. Overall, while the two switches have a small difference in travel distance, they both offer a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 clicky switch offers a unique crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch provides a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile that is deep, rich, and satisfying without being overly loud. Depending on your preference for sound, the Box Mute Jade offers a distinct clicky experience, while the Gold Brown Pro provides a more subtle and mellow typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Box Mute Jade switch offers an accented feel with stiff and polished characteristics. This means that users will experience a medium tactile bump that is not overwhelming, accompanied by a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Gold Brown Pro switch provides a polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped feel, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience with a two-stage tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a medium tactile bump with a stiffer feel or a smoother, more subtle typing experience, both switches cater to different preferences.
Overall, if you enjoy the crunchy feel and quieter sound of a clicky switch, the Kailh Box Mute Jade would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle, nuanced tactile feedback with a mellow sound profile, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch would be more suitable. While the two switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, both provide a unique typing experience tailored to specific preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider the level of feedback and sound profile you prefer. If you enjoy the crunchy feel and quieter sound of a clicky switch, then the Box Mute Jade is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value subtle tactile feedback and a subdued sound profile for a more immersive typing experience, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for key feel and noise level. So, whether you prefer a pronounced click or a gentle bump, there is a mechanical switch out there perfect for your typing needs.