Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Jupiter Banana. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a satisfying crunchy feel with a quieter sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy clicky switches but prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a consistent feel with a creamy, resonant sound profile. While both switches have their unique strengths, such as the accented and stiff nature of the Box Mute Jade and the polished and high-pitched qualities of the Jupiter Banana, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches feature polycarbonate top housings, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in these housings allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for users who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who wish to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup, as the material allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housings. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. This combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the construction of these switches ensures a balanced sound experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
While the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches may differ between the top and bottom, the overall typing experience and sound profile they offer are quite similar. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound and translucent aesthetics, along with nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound experience. By combining these materials in their construction, both switches aim to provide users with a well-rounded typing experience that balances clarity, resonance, and feel for a satisfying and immersive mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is heavier than the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Box Mute Jade requires 75 grams of force to actuate and 82 grams to bottom out, while the Jupiter Banana needs 59 grams and 69 grams respectively. The Box Mute Jade provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier force requirements, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana offers a lighter typing experience, making it more ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so choosing between them depends on personal preference for typing comfort and feedback. Ultimately, selecting the right switch weight is crucial to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by some gamers for increased responsiveness. The Kailh switch provides a slightly deeper press compared to the Gateron switch, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50, whereas the Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80.
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 comparing the sound of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, the Box Mute Jade offers a quieter yet unmistakably clicky sound profile that is often described as crunchy. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and resonant sound when pressed, creating a sharp and crisp auditory experience. While the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as keyboard and keycaps, those seeking a quieter and more subdued click may prefer the Box Mute Jade, while those looking for a sharper, more resonant sound may lean towards the Jupiter Banana.
Moving on to the feel, the Box Mute Jade is known for its accented tactility, stiff actuation, and polished smoothness, offering a medium tactile experience with a refined key travel. In comparison, the Gateron Jupiter Banana boasts a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel, coupled with a creamy typing sensation that feels smooth and buttery. If you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump and stiffer actuation, the Box Mute Jade may be the better choice, while those who prefer a silky and effortless keystroke may find the Jupiter Banana more to their liking.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles for users to choose from. While the Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy, quieter click and an accented, stiff feel, the Jupiter Banana offers a high-pitched, resonant sound and a polished, creamy typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired results.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy the crispy feel of a clicky switch but prefer a quieter sound profile, the Box Mute Jade would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a softer tactile bump with a smooth and comfortable typing experience, the Gateron Jupiter Banana may be more suited to your liking. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel to determine which switch aligns best with your needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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