Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Outemu Lime (V3)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Lime (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a distinct typing experience, you may want to consider the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Lime switches. The Box Mute Jade is perfect for those who enjoy the satisfying crunch of a clicky switch but prefer a more subdued sound profile. With a slight bump and a quieter clicky sound, this switch offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switches are incredibly unique in their lightweight nature and approachable tactility. These switches provide a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility, making them ideal for tactile fans. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Lime differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Box Mute Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Lime utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch with a more distinct sound, the Box Mute Jade with its polycarbonate top housing would be the preferred choice.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Lime utilize nylon. This material is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic compared to harder alternatives, absorbs more sound during typing, leading to a more resonant and satisfying experience. Thus, in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches would provide a similar outcome.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in determining the overall sound and feel. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that while the Box Mute Jade's polycarbonate top housing may provide a crisper sound when key release, the nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures a deeper and fuller sound during typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it becomes clear that they have significant differences. In terms of weight, the Box Mute Jade is definitely on the heavier side. It requires a force of 75 grams for actuation and 82 grams for bottoming out. This weight may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
On the other hand, the Outemu Lime is much lighter in comparison. It only requires 35 grams of force for actuation and 45 grams for bottoming out. This lighter weight may be appealing to individuals who value typing for longer periods, such as those who require a keyboard for work or extended gaming sessions.
In terms of similarities, both switches provide a clear and distinct actuation and bottom out force. While the Box Mute Jade is heavier, and the Outemu Lime is lighter, they both offer an ergonomic experience for the user. Whether one prefers a heavier or a lighter key press, these switches are designed to deliver their intended force accurately and reliably.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch will depend on individual preference and typing style. Those seeking a more substantial feel and a heavier force may opt for the Box Mute Jade, while individuals looking for a lighter touch and prolonged typing comfort may find the Outemu Lime more suitable.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch. While both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, they provide different experiences. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Outemu Lime switch. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress and a sense of depth may lean towards the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40.
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 switch offers a distinctive "crunchy" sound that is commonly associated with clicky switches. This sound can be likened to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch has a more neutral sound profile. While it is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, the specific sound characteristics of the Lime switch are not provided. It is worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a clicky switch with a more subdued sound, the Box Mute Jade would be a suitable choice, whereas the Lime switch offers a quieter and potentially more neutral sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch provides an accented tactile experience. It falls into the category of a "medium tactile" switch, offering a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade switch is described as stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and/or bottom-out compared to other switches. Its polished finish enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and providing smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch offers a mild and approachable tactile feel. It falls into the category of a switch that provides a more gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. The Lime switch is also described as feathery, requiring little exertion from the fingers and reducing finger fatigue. Similar to the Box Mute Jade switch, the Lime switch boasts a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth typing. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a medium tactile feel and a stiffer typing experience, the Box Mute Jade switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a lighter and gentler tactile feel, along with reduced finger strain, the Lime switch would be a better fit.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Outemu Lime switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade switch provides a crunchy clicky sound, perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy a bit of an audible click but in a more subdued manner. Its accented and stiff feel can provide a satisfying and polished typing experience for those who prefer a medium tactile switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch offers a potentially neutral and muted sound, making it suitable for shared spaces or individuals seeking a quieter typing experience. With its mild and feathery feel, the Lime switch provides a light and comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, the polished finish of both switches contributes to smoother key travel and reduced friction. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you enjoy the satisfying crunch and clicky sound of a switch but prefer a quieter profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 82 grams, these switches provide a heavy and accented feel, giving you a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the polished finish ensures smooth key travel, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a touch of tactility, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches are exceptionally light and feathery, reducing finger fatigue and making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Lime switches also have a subtle resistance, allowing for a gentle typing feel, and a muted sound profile that minimizes noise. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Outemu Lime switches will depend on your personal preferences for weight, feel, and sound.
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