Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, there are two options worth considering: the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Durock Lupine. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a satisfying crunchy feel when typing. What sets it apart is its more subdued sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter clicky switch experience. On the other hand, the Lupine is a linear switch that provides a delightful typing sensation thanks to its two-stage long springs. Users will appreciate the consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. While it produces a classic clacky sound, it's categorized as having a high-pitched tone. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Durock Lupine switches are remarkably similar. Both switches employ polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the inherent stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it an excellent choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Its comparatively softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the specific sounds produced by each switch may differ, the overall effect of the nylon bottom housing on the typing experience remains consistent.
However, it is worth noting that if a switch's top and bottom housings differ, the qualities attributed to each housing material will be distinct in the corresponding parts of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the characteristics 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 produced when a key is released.
In conclusion, the housing materials used in the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Durock Lupine switches share many similarities, particularly when it comes to their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. While slight variations in sound may exist, both switches offer comparable results in terms of sound profiles. Whether it's the sharpness and resonance provided by polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller tones facilitated by nylon, both switches aim to deliver an optimal typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are notable differences. The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a 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 Durock Lupine linear switch has an unknown actuation force but a lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a smoother and potentially faster typing experience. If a lighter weight is preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Durock Lupine linear switch may be more suitable. However, for those seeking a stronger push feel and a more pronounced keystroke, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch with its heavier forces would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in recent times. Gamers especially tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Box Mute Jade with its shorter travel distance would be a good choice. However, some individuals find short travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial key press, the Lupine with its slightly longer travel distance may be preferable. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 switch offers a more subdued clicky sound profile. While it still has a distinctive click, it is quieter compared to other clicky switches. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch has a classic clacky sound profile, which is characteristic of linear switches. The Lupine switch produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, thanks to its high-pitched nature. However, it is worth noting that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch provides a medium-level tactile experience. It offers a slight bump when pressed, providing a noticeable tactile feedback without being overwhelming. Additionally, these switches have a stiff characteristic, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out. The Box Mute Jade switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch offers a more gentle and mild typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls in the safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Similar to the Box Mute Jade, the Lupine switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that enhances the typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is ideal for those who enjoy the crunchy feel of a clicky switch but prefer a quieter sound profile. It offers a slight bump and a more subdued clicky sound. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch provides a consistent weight distribution when pressed down and a powerful upward movement during the rebound. It has a classic clacky sound profile. While the sound and feel of these switches differ, both offer a polished finish for a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you enjoy the satisfyingly crunchy feel of a clicky switch with a quieter sound profile, then the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches provide a slight bump and a more subdued clicky sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a consistent weight distribution on the press and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound, the Durock Lupine linear switch is perfect for you. These switches have a classic clacky sound profile.
In terms of sound, the Box Mute Jade offers a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Conversely, the Lupine has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and a high-pitched sound for those who prefer a sharp and crisp sound.
When it comes to feel, the Box Mute Jade offers an accented and stiff typing experience with a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Lupine, on the other hand, provides a milder and more gentle typing experience with a polished finish for decreased friction and a sleek typing feel.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a clicky switch with a quieter sound and a crunchy feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade is your best bet. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a classic clacky sound and a milder typing feel, the Durock Lupine is the way to go. Consider your personal preferences and needs to make an informed decision on which switch suits you best.
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