Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Bsun Kiki Red offer distinctly different typing experiences. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that provides a satisfying crunch with a more subdued sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy tactile feedback without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Kiki Red is a linear switch that offers a high-pitched, clacky nuance without being too loud, thanks to its unique design featuring POM housings and Ly stems. While the Box Mute Jade is 'Accented', 'Crunchy', 'Stiff', and 'Polished', the Kiki Red is 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', and 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches have their own advantages, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you make the best choice for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Bsun Kiki Red, it is clear that they share similarities in terms of the sound profile they aim to achieve. Both switches use unique housing materials to create a pleasing and deep sound profile, with the Kiki Red's POM housing offering a deeper and muted sound compared to the Box Mute Jade's polycarbonate housing, which provides a sharper and crisper sound. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience by offering a distinct sound profile that stands out among other switches.
However, where the Box Mute Jade stands out is in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, which is known for creating a fuller and deeper sound profile. This contrasts with the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing, which also contributes to the deeper sound profile but with a different texture and feel. The combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the Box Mute Jade allows for a more well-rounded typing experience, with each housing material playing a role in producing a unique sound and feel. On the other hand, the Kiki Red's consistent use of POM for both top and bottom housing may result in a more uniform sound profile throughout the typing process.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Bsun Kiki Red will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While both switches offer a unique typing experience with their distinct housing materials, the Box Mute Jade's use of a combination of nylon and polycarbonate may appeal to those looking for a more varied sound profile. Conversely, the Kiki Red's consistent use of POM throughout provides a more consistent typing experience. Regardless of the choice, both switches are sure to enhance the overall typing experience with their innovative housing materials.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch have significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Kiki Red has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming without fatigue. The actuation force in the Box Mute Jade requires more pressure to trigger a keystroke compared to the Kiki Red, while the bottom out force also indicates a firmer touch needed for the Box Mute Jade. In essence, while the Box Mute Jade offers a heavier typing experience, the Kiki Red is lighter and more suitable for extended use.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in a similar typing experience for users of both switches. The travel distance of 3.6 mm for both switches indicates that they will provide comparable feedback and actuation feel when pressed down on, making them suitable options for those who prefer a standard key travel distance. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, as they both offer the same 3.6 mm distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 offers a distinctive crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch provides a clacky noise when pressed, producing a sharp and percussive sound. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also vary based on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade switch is characterized by an accented tactile feel, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming. It also has a stiffness that requires more force to actuate, leading to a polished typing experience. Conversely, the Bsun Kiki Red switch offers a creamy and frictionless feel, making typing smooth and effortless. The switch is also described as snappy, providing a lively typing experience with minimal resistance.
Overall, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. While the Box Mute Jade switch is known for its crunchy sound and accented feel, the Bsun Kiki Red switch excels in providing a clacky sound and a creamy, frictionless typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the two switches to achieve your desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch or the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy the tactile feedback and subtle click of a heavier switch, the Box Mute Jade may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, lighter keystroke with a high-pitched clacky sound, the Kiki Red could be the ideal choice. The Box Mute Jade offers a crunchy feel and a quieter click, while the Kiki Red provides a creamy and frictionless typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing performance. Make sure to consider these factors carefully before making your selection to ensure you find the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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