Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Dareu Master offer two distinctly different typing experiences. The Box Mute Jade is ideal for those who enjoy the tactile feedback and satisfying clickiness of a switch, but prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master is perfect for users who prefer a smoother, linear switch with a classic clacky sound profile. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, whether it be the accented, crunchy feel of the Box Mute Jade or the mild, polished operation of the Dareu Master. 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
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and Dareu Master both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Box Mute Jade's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, more resonant sound compared to the Master's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. This difference in sound is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate versus the softer nature of POM, with polycarbonate providing a clearer and crisper sound while POM offers a more pleasing and unique sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Box Mute Jade and the POM top housing of the Dareu Master each contributing to their overall sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Kailh Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to the Dareu Master's POM bottom housing. Both nylon and POM offer unique sound characteristics, with nylon producing a duller and rounder sound while POM provides a deeper and more muted sound experience. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective bottom housing materials contributing to their sound profiles.
While the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Dareu Master differ, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Mute Jade creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the Dareu Master produces a deeper and more muted sound. Likewise, the nylon bottom housing of the Box Mute Jade offers a fuller sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Dareu Master provides a unique and pleasing typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience, showcasing the impact that housing materials can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Weight
In comparing the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that they differ significantly in actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Mute Jade 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 Master has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods. The bottom out force of the Master is unknown, but it is likely to be lighter compared to the Box Mute Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some preferring the heavier force of the Box Mute Jade for a more tactile typing experience and others opting for the lighter force of the Master for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the Box Mute Jade has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Master switch. If you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and feedback when typing, you might lean towards the Box Mute Jade. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker key presses, the Dareu Master linear switch could be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so you can expect similar results from either one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 unique "crunchy" sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. This switch provides a quieter clicky experience compared to traditional clicky switches, appealing to those who enjoy tactile feedback without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch delivers a classic "clacky" sound signature, emitting a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Box Mute Jade offering a more subdued clicky sound and the Master providing a bright and percussive clack.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch offers an accented tactile experience, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, its stiffness requires a higher amount of force to actuate, resulting in a more deliberate typing experience. The polished finish of the Box Mute Jade switch contributes to a smooth and refined keystroke, reducing friction and enhancing typing comfort. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a mild typing experience, striking a balance between comfort and responsiveness. Like the Box Mute Jade, the Master switch also features a polished finish for smooth key travel and reduced friction, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Dareu Master linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a unique "crunchy" sound profile and an accented tactility with a polished finish, catering to those who prefer a quieter clicky experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch delivers a classic "clacky" sound signature and a mild typing experience with a polished finish, appealing to users seeking a balance between comfort and responsiveness. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer reliable performance and a satisfying typing experience suitable for different user preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a clicky switch that provides a satisfying tactile bump while maintaining a quieter sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and consistent linear switch with a classic clacky sound, the Dareu Master switch is the way to go. Consider your preference for typing experience and noise level when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
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