Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a range of options available to suit different preferences. Two popular choices are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the TTC Gold Red. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback, while producing a more subdued sound profile compared to other clicky switches. With its accented and crunchy feel, it offers a unique typing experience for those who appreciate a bit of a tactile response. On the other hand, the Gold Red is a linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. Its snappy sound profile adds a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. Both switches are polished and provide their own unique strengths. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the TTC Gold Red switches have several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, giving them a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be showcased through the clear housing, making it aesthetically pleasing for those who want to incorporate lighting in their keyboards.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ. The Box Mute Jade employs nylon for its bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a relatively softer plastic, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gold Red also features a nylon bottom housing, leading to a similar effect of a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches benefit from the characteristics of nylon, enhancing the overall sound experience while typing.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the switch's performance. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become evident, significantly impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. While both switches share similarities in their top housing material, the differences in their bottom housing contribute to subtle variations in their overall sound profiles.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the TTC Gold Red switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, ensuring a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. However, their nylon bottom housings result in slightly different sound profiles, with the Box Mute Jade offering a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nylon material. If you are seeking a switch with enhanced sound quality, both switches provide satisfactory results, but the specific characteristics of their bottom housing materials will cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it becomes evident that they offer different experiences. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, requiring a stronger push to trigger a keystroke, while the Gold Red has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, allowing for a more sensitive response. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Box Mute Jade has a higher force of 82 grams, giving a more substantial typing experience, whereas the Gold Red has a lower force of 50 grams, resulting in a lighter touch.
Considering weight, for those seeking a lighter switch, such as individuals who spend long periods typing or gaming, the Gold Red would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces contribute to a smoother and less fatiguing experience. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more pronounced typing experience may lean towards the Box Mute Jade switch. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial and tactile feedback. Despite their differences, it is important to note that both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gold Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. Compared to the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, the Box Mute Jade offers a slightly shallower experience, making it a popular choice among gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Gold Red provides a more traditional depth with its 4 mm travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. Whether you choose the shorter or longer travel distance will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness or a greater sense of depth. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique travel distances, allowing you to find a satisfying experience regardless of your preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 feel and more subdued sound profile. When using these switches, there is a slight bump in the feel and a quieter, yet unmistakably clicky sound. The sound produced is similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. The snappy sound profile of these switches adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. The Gold Red switch can be described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released.
In summary, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gold Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy feel and a more subdued clicky sound, while the Gold Red offers a smooth and gentle typing experience with a satisfying thocky sound. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. It's important to note that the sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference for the desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a heavy and crunchy switch with a more subdued sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the way to go. It offers a tactile bump and a quieter clicky sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience with a touch of personality, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is the ideal choice. It provides a buttery smooth feel and a snappy sound profile that adds a modest touch of personality without being too ostentatious. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for weight, sound, and feel.
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