Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and Zuoce Lavender mechanical keyboard switches offer contrasting experiences to suit different preferences. The Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy feel and a more subdued sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy clicky switches without the loud noise. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound, promising a satisfying typing experience. While the Box Mute Jade is accented, crunchy, stiff, and polished, the Lavender switch is easy-to-press and clacky. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to specific 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
48g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Z1 (Ly blend)
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
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Zuoce Lavender switches differ in terms of the top and bottom housing materials. The Box Mute Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Lavender has a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, both switches share a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side. This means that while the top housing of the switches may offer distinct sound characteristics, the bottom housing contributes to a similar overall sound experience.
In terms of the top housing materials, the polycarbonate used in the Box Mute Jade switch offers a clear and resonant sound profile that is particularly well-suited for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Lavender switch creates a unique and deeper sound profile that is more on the muted side. On the other hand, both switches share a POM bottom housing, known for creating a fuller and deeper sound profile. It is interesting to note how the choice of top and bottom housing materials can impact the overall sound experience of a switch, with each material bringing its own distinct qualities to the table.
One important factor to consider when comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Zuoce Lavender switches is how these materials influence the typing experience. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Box Mute Jade contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Lavender offers a similar deep and muted sound profile. This shows that despite the differences in the top housing materials, the choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch. Ultimately, while the top and bottom housing materials may vary between these two switches, they ultimately contribute to a similar typing experience with unique sound profiles.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch differ significantly in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Box Mute Jade has a much heavier actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Lavender has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more ideal for longer typing sessions. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Lavender switch, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the Box Mute Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and comfort.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Lavender switch has the shorter travel distance compared to the Box Mute Jade. The difference may seem minimal, but for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the Lavender switch would be the preferable choice. However, if you prefer a deeper key press with more feedback, the Box Mute Jade switch with its slightly longer travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, while still maintaining a subdued and quieter clicky sound. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch produces a clacky sound when pressed, characterized by its sharp, snappy, and percussive nature. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, with the Box Mute Jade offering a more subtle experience compared to the Lavender's crisp and bright sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers an accented tactile experience, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, these switches are described as stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out, which may appeal to users seeking a more robust typing experience. The Box Mute Jade switches also boast a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy, subdued clicky sound and an accented, stiff tactile feel, the Lavender switch offers a clacky, crisp sound and an easy-to-press typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you appreciate a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile and a heavier bottom out force, the Kailh Box Mute Jade would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and easy-to-press linear switch with a lighter bottom out force, the Zuoce Lavender would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. It's important to consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making a choice.
Mentioned in this article
