Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. KTT Lightning

Overview

If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers an enjoyable typing experience, you may want to consider the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Lightning. The Box Mute Jade is perfect for those who appreciate the tactile feedback of a clicky switch but prefer a more subdued sound. With a slight bump and a quieter, yet unmistakably clicky sound profile, these switches provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Lightnings offer an approachable "speed" switch for those who value responsiveness and precision. With a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile, these switches are ideal for situations where milliseconds can make all the difference in winning or losing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

KTT Lightning Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.41 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Box Mute Jade and KTT Lightning switches both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material offers similar benefits for both switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for those who value the sound experience of their keyboard. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches.

Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Box Mute Jade and Lightning switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Unlike polycarbonate, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, making nylon a suitable choice for those who prefer a more muffled typing experience.

While the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, they still contribute to the overall sound profile in similar ways. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when you release a key. This means that despite the material variations, both the Box Mute Jade and Lightning switches offer comparable results in terms of sound characteristics. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, these switches have you covered.

Weight

The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, meaning it requires a relatively strong push to trigger a keystroke. In comparison, the Lightning has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it easier to activate with less force. Both switches have different bottom out forces as well, with the Box Mute Jade requiring 82 grams of force to fully press down, while the Lightning only needs 50 grams. These differences in force can significantly impact typing experiences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Lightning switch more suitable, as it allows for extended typing without excessive strain. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Box Mute Jade, with its heavier forces, may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm. The Box Mute Jade has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lightning switch. The industry standard for travel distance is typically around 4.0 mm, so both of these switches are on the shorter side. However, the Lightning switch is even shorter than the Box Mute Jade. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, so the Lightning switch may be a better choice for those wanting a more responsive feel. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is best known for its crunchy sound profile. This clicky switch produces a sound that can be likened to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. It offers a more subdued sound compared to other clicky switches, making it a good choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch is described as clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp and bright tone. The Lightning switch is ideal for those seeking a more percussive sound and enjoy the unique acoustic signature of a chirpy switch. While these two switches have different sound profiles, both offer distinct and satisfying auditory experiences.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is described as accented, stiff, and polished. Its medium tactile feedback provides a noticeable bump that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This switch requires more force to actuate and bottom-out, giving it a stiffer feel compared to other switches. Additionally, the polished finish of the Box Mute Jade switch ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and allowing for smooth key travel. Similarly, the KTT Lightning switch is described as subtle and polished. It offers a gentle resistance that is not overly light but still maintains a light typing feel. The polished finish of the Lightning switch contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Both switches provide tactile feedback and smooth key travel, making them enjoyable to type on.

Based on the available information, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch and the KTT Lightning switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade switch produces a quieter clicky sound with a crunchy profile and offers a medium tactile feel with a stiffer force requirement. The Lightning switch, on the other hand, produces a clacky and high-pitched sound with a subtle feel. Both switches feature a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Whether you prefer the subdued and crunchy sound of the Box Mute Jade or the sharp and snappy sound of the Lightning, both switches provide unique qualities that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you enjoy a heavier switch with a more subdued clicky sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the perfect choice for you. With its 82-gram bottom out force, you can expect a sturdy and satisfying typing experience. The Box Mute Jade offers a slight bump and a quieter clicky sound, providing a unique tactile and auditory experience. On the other hand, if you value speed and responsiveness, the KTT Lightning linear switch is the way to go. With a light 50-gram bottom out force, these switches are perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference. You'll experience a smooth and fluid typing feel with a clacky sound profile that makes each keystroke feel precise and decisive. Overall, the Box Mute Jade offers a heavier and more tactile option, while the Lightning provides a lighter and snappier typing experience. Consider your preferences and needs to choose the switch that best suits your style of typing.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

$6.50 per 10

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KTT Lightning Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more