Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Durock Medium Tactile

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are numerous options to choose from. Two popular choices are the clicky Kailh Box Mute Jade switch and the tactile Durock Medium Tactile switch. If you enjoy the satisfying crunchiness of a clicky switch but prefer a more subdued sound profile, then the Box Mute Jade is the perfect choice for you. With its slight bump and quieter clicky sound signature, it provides a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch created by Durock offers a different experience with its pronounced and balanced tactility. It provides a jelly-like sound signature that many keyboard enthusiasts love. Both switches fall under the accented, polished category, but they differ in terms of their crunchiness versus their tactility. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

$6.50 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Durock Medium Tactile share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. This material choice provides both switches with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the lights to shine through for a visually appealing effect. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using both switches.

In terms of the bottom housings, both the Box Mute Jade and the Medium Tactile utilize nylon. The use of nylon in switch housings creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the typing experience on both switches will elicit a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing of a switch primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound on both switches.

While the top housings on the Box Mute Jade and the Medium Tactile are the same, the bottom housings differ between the two switches. This means that the qualities of the housing materials will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, users will feel the impact and qualities of the bottom housing, which contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, where the bottom and top of the switch play different roles in the overall sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that they have distinct differences. The Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a relatively heavier actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, offering a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch's actuation force is unavailable, making it unclear how much force is required to trigger a keystroke. However, its bottom out force is lighter at 65 grams, providing a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the Box Mute Jade.

Considering the importance of weight in switches, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming may find the Medium Tactile switch more suitable. Its lighter bottom out force allows for longer and more comfortable typing sessions. Alternatively, for individuals who appreciate a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be the preferred choice due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.

While the actuation force of the Durock Medium Tactile switch is unknown, if it happens to be similar or equal to the 75 grams actuation force of the Box Mute Jade clicky switch, then users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, it is worth noting that even with equal actuation forces, the bottom out force of the Box Mute Jade remains heavier at 82 grams, resulting in a slightly different typing experience in terms of the force required to fully press the keys.

Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and typing style. Those who prioritize a lighter touch for extended periods may lean towards the Medium Tactile switch, while individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience may opt for the heavier and more pronounced feel of the Box Mute Jade switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that there is a difference. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Medium Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is the most common, while 3.0 mm is considered the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become more popular in recent times, particularly among gamers who prefer faster response times. In this case, the Box Mute Jade with its shorter travel distance would be the preferred option. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a more substantial key feel, the longer travel distance of the Medium Tactile would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches would depend on personal preference and desired responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is known for its unique sound profile. If you enjoy the satisfying crunch and tactile feedback of a clicky switch, but prefer a quieter experience, this switch is a great choice. It provides a slight bump when pressed, accompanied by a clicky sound that is more subdued compared to other clicky switches. This switch offers a balance between tactile feedback and a quieter noise level.

On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch stands out for its pronounced yet balanced tactility. It provides a significant amount of tactile feedback without being overwhelming or too subtle. The feel of this switch is described as accented, meaning it has a prominent amount of tactility that is not scratchy. Additionally, it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience.

When it comes to sound, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a distinct characteristic described as "crunchy." This refers to the sound produced when pressing the switch, resembling the crisp and crunchy noise of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the sound signature of the Durock Medium Tactile switch is not specified, so it is unknown how it sounds. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both the Box Mute Jade and the Medium Tactile switches are described as accented, meaning they provide a noticeable level of tactility without being too intense or subtle. They also share the description of "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the Box Mute Jade is additionally described as "stiff," requiring more force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches. The Medium Tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as "stepped," having a more mild feel with slight pre-travel or post-travel sensation. It is also labeled as "mild," offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users.

In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in both sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a quieter clicky experience with a slight bump, while the Durock Medium Tactile offers pronounced yet balanced tactility with a polished smoothness. However, it's important to consider individual preferences and other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used to determine the best fit for your personal typing experience.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a switch with a heavier bottom out force and a more pronounced clicky sound, then the Box Mute Jade is the perfect fit for you. It provides a slightly quieter but unmistakably clicky sound profile, along with a crunchy feel that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade offers an accented, stiff, and polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more balanced tactility, the Medium Tactile is an excellent choice. It features a pronounced yet balanced tactility, creating a jelly-like sound signature. With its accented, stepped, mild, and polished feel, the Medium Tactile offers a gentle typing experience that should appeal to most users.

In summary, if you prioritize a heavier and clicky switch with a subdued sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade is the one for you. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile is the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more