Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a wide range of options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Two popular choices are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Ink Box Black. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch known for its crunchy feel and more subdued sound profile. With a slight bump and a quieter yet unmistakably clicky sound, this switch provides an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is a linear switch that offers an incredibly smooth and creamy feel. Its sound signature is reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. Both switches have their merits, with the Box Mute Jade offering a satisfying tactile experience and the Ink Box Black providing a silky smooth typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$6.50 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Ink Box Black differ in terms of their top housing materials. The Box Mute Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. This material offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, but without being overly sharp. The INK blend produces a satisfying thin sound that is often described as clacky. Despite their differences, both top housing materials contribute to producing a unique sound experience.

In terms of bottom housing materials, the Box Mute Jade incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Ink Box Black uses Gateron's proprietary INK blend. The nylon bottom housing of the Box Mute Jade is a classic material choice known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black contributes to its characteristic pointed and high-pitched sound profile. Both materials offer distinct sound qualities that enhance the overall typing experience.

Although the top and bottom housing materials differ between the two switches, they both play a crucial role in the sound production. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound produced when a key is released. Both the Box Mute Jade and the Ink Box Black optimize their respective housing materials to create unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the clear and resonant sound of polycarbonate or the clacky and high-pitched sound of the INK blend, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams compared to the Ink Box Black's lighter force of 60 grams. This means that it requires more pressure to trigger a keystroke on the Box Mute Jade. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade also has a heavier force of 82 grams, while the Ink Box Black has a slightly lighter force of 70 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ink Box Black would be a suitable choice with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter weight allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for tasks like office work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces. Some users might find this stronger push feel more satisfying and prefer it for a more tactile and responsive typing experience.

Both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preference. Those who prefer a lighter feel will lean towards the Ink Box Black, while individuals seeking a heavier and more solid typing experience may find the Box Mute Jade to be their preferred option. It's important to consider the weight factor when selecting a switch, as it can greatly impact the overall typing experience and comfort level.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent and similar experience when it comes to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Box Mute Jade or the Ink Box Black, you can expect to feel a 3.6 mm travel distance when pressing down on a key.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a quieter clicky sound compared to other clicky switches. The sound is described as more subdued, though still unmistakably clicky. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound signature is likened to the sound of a spray paint can being shaken. 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.

Moving on to feel, the Box Mute Jade is described as an accented switch, which means it provides a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It offers a slight bump when pressed. Additionally, it is considered stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. The switch also has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience.

On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. It enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Similar to the Box Mute Jade, the Ink Box Black also has a polished finish, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Gateron Ink Box Black switches offer different subjective qualities. The Box Mute Jade has a quieter clicky sound and provides a medium amount of tactility with a stiff feel. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black offers a sharp and snappy sound with a silky smooth typing experience. Both switches have a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on your personal preferences, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are someone who enjoys the satisfying crunch of a clicky switch but prefers a quieter sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the perfect choice for you. With its heavy bottom out force of 82 grams, you can expect a more pronounced tactile bump and a quieter, though unmistakably clicky, sound signature. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a creamy typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is your go-to option. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches provide an incredibly smooth and silky typing feel, reminiscent of shaking a spray paint can. The sound signature of the Ink Box Black can be described as clacky, sharp, and high-pitched, appealing to those who prefer a crisp and bright sound when typing. Both switches offer a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision between the Box Mute Jade and the Ink Box Black boils down to your preference for clicky vs linear switches and the desired sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

$6.50 per 10

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Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more