Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Mute Jade, a clicky switch, and the Gateron Lunar Probe, a linear switch, there are distinct differences in their characteristics. The Box Mute Jade is perfect for those who enjoy a clicky switch but prefer a quieter sound profile, offering a subtle bump and a subdued clicky sound. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe from Gateron is praised for its stable and consistent keypresses, providing an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound profile. While the Box Mute Jade is accented, crunchy, stiff, and polished, the Lunar Probe does not fall into any specific categories. Both switches have their unique advantages, making them suitable for different 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
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
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
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Both switches are ideal for use with RGB lighting due to the material's translucency. However, the bottom housings of the switches differ, with the Box Mute Jade featuring a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Lunar Probe also has a nylon bottom housing that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
While the top housings of both switches are made of polycarbonate, providing similar sound profiles, the different bottom housings of the Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches offer distinct typing experiences. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Box Mute Jade absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience for users seeking a specific sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched sound, but the nylon bottom housings provide distinct typing experiences. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound with the Box Mute Jade or a duller and rounder sound with the Lunar Probe, the choice between these switches will ultimately be dictated by the desired typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch provide a clear distinction in weight. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, while the Lunar Probe boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Box Mute Jade switch more suitable for those who prefer a substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Lunar Probe switch is ideal for users who value a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for actuation forces and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is identical, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users will experience a consistent key press feel and response from both switches. The travel distance dictates how far the switch needs to be pressed for actuation to occur, with a longer travel distance potentially resulting in a more satisfying tactile feedback. In this case, both switches offer the same travel distance, making them equally suitable for users who prefer this specific keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 crunchy and satisfying click without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch provides a subtle sound profile, allowing for a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, catering to different preferences for keyboard noise levels.
In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade switch is accented, stiff, and polished, providing a tactile feedback that is not too light or too heavy, making each keystroke feel refined. Additionally, the Lunar Probe switch features Gateron's dual rail mechanism for stable keypresses and delivers a smooth, pre-lubed linear typing experience. While the specifics of the feel may vary, both switches offer unique tactile and typing experiences for users to enjoy.
Overall, choosing between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch will ultimately depend on personal preference. If you prefer a clicky switch with a quieter sound profile and refined tactile feedback, the Box Mute Jade may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a smooth, pre-lubed linear switch with stable keypresses, then the Gateron Lunar Probe may be the ideal choice. Both switches offer distinct qualities that will enhance your typing experience, so you can expect a satisfying result regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you enjoy the tactile and clicky experience of a switch with a heavier actuation force, then the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth linear feel, then the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is the way to go. Consider your typing preferences and sound preferences when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and needs.
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