Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and TTC Gold Red Pro offer distinct experiences for users. The Box Mute Jade provides a satisfying clicky feel with a more subtle sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro linear switch boasts versatility, offering a smooth typing experience that suits a wide range of preferences. While the Box Mute Jade is categorized as 'Accented', 'Crunchy', 'Stiff', and 'Polished', the Gold Red Pro is described as 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle'. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different needs and preferences. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the TTC Gold Red Pro are quite similar, as they both feature polycarbonate top housings. Both switches are described as having sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles due to the use of polycarbonate, which is known for being a relatively stiffer plastic that produces clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial if RGB lighting is a factor in your decision-making process. The similarities in their top housings suggest that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Box Mute Jade features a nylon bottom housing, which is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro also has a nylon bottom housing, leading to a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the top housings may be the same, the differences in their bottom housings could result in a unique typing experience that sets them apart from each other.
In terms of impact on sound and feel, the housing materials of the switches play a crucial role. The qualities of the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will have a more pronounced impact on the sound when releasing a key. With the Box Mute Jade and the Gold Red Pro having different bottom housings but the same top housing material, users can expect a nuanced typing experience that combines the unique characteristics of both nylon and polycarbonate in each switch.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 75 grams compared to the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch with an actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Box Mute Jade will require more force to register a keystroke. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Box Mute Jade is also heavier at 82 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red Pro would be the better option due to its lighter actuation force. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Box Mute Jade would be the preferable choice. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Gold Red Pro being slightly longer than the Box Mute Jade. Gamers may prefer the Box Mute Jade for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a deeper keypress may opt for the Gold Red Pro. In general, both switches offer a moderate travel distance suitable for various typing preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is known for its crunchy sound profile, resembling the satisfying sound of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound signature, providing a deep, rich, and harmonious typing experience suitable for any setting. While the Box Mute Jade gives off a quieter clicky sound, the Gold Red Pro offers a more versatile and adaptable auditory experience that caters to a wide range of preferences.
In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch is described as accented, stiff, and polished, offering a tactile yet smooth typing experience. On the contrary, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch provides a polished, silky, mild, and subtle feel, ensuring a gentle and smooth typing sensation with reduced friction and minimal resistance. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing experience, with the Box Mute Jade offering more prominent tactile feedback and the Gold Red Pro focusing on smooth key travel and gentle resistance.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in sound and feel. While the Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy and tactile typing experience with a subdued clicky sound, the Gold Red Pro delivers a harmonious and versatile typing experience with a neutral, low-pitched sound profile. Depending on your preference for a more pronounced tactile feedback and crunchier sound or a smooth, versatile typing feel with a harmonious sound, both switches offer excellent options for different typing styles and environments. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a crunchy feel and quieter clicky sound, the Box Mute Jade is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a versatile and smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro offers adaptability across various settings. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience and sound signature you prefer, whether it be the distinct clickiness of the Box Mute Jade or the seamless press of the Gold Red Pro.
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