Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the SP-Star Meteor Orange. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a unique combination of tactile feedback and a quieter sound profile. If you enjoy the satisfying crunch of a clicky switch but prefer a more subdued noise level, the Box Mute Jade is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange is a tactile switch that boasts a gentle and soft tactility, accompanied by a neutral sound profile. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a subtle tactile bump, the Meteor Orange switch is an excellent option. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Kailh Box Mute Jade and the SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in terms of their housing materials. The Box Mute Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate housing of the Box Mute Jade creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, attributed to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Box Mute Jade and the Meteor Orange use nylon as their material of choice. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the absorption of sound by the relatively softer plastic. Therefore, the bottom housings of both switches contribute to a similar sound experience, eliciting a duller and rounder sound when typing.
While the top and bottom housings differ for the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, the overall sound experience is affected by both materials. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it becomes evident that they differ in terms of weight. The Box Mute Jade has a relatively heavier actuation force of 75 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams. This can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange has an actuation force of unspecified grams, making it challenging to directly compare. However, it does have a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. This lighter weight can be advantageous for individuals who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing periods or prolonged gaming sessions. Ultimately, both switches offer different weight options to cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Box Mute Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Meteor Orange has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances commonly seen in keyboards. The shorter travel distance of the Box Mute Jade may be more suitable for gamers seeking faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Meteor Orange may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one values a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is known for its crunchy feel and more subdued sound profile. When using these switches, you will feel a slight bump and hear a quieter, yet still unmistakably clicky sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile. The Meteor Orange switches are described as gentle, providing a safe and middle-ground typing experience for most users. Both switches are described as polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, if you prefer a crunchy feel with a quieter sound, the Box Mute Jade switch is the ideal choice. If you prefer a more gentle typing experience with a neutral sound, the Meteor Orange switch is the way to go. With either option, you can expect smooth and polished key travel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, 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 its heavier bottom out force of 82 grams and accented feel, you'll experience a prominent but not overwhelming level of tactility. Additionally, its polished finish ensures smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle and seductive typing experience with a soft thocky sound, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the ideal option. With a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams and a mild feel, these switches provide a safe middle-ground experience suitable for most users. Moreover, their polished finish guarantees reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, whether you prioritize the crunchy click or the gentle tactility, both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
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