Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct experiences are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch, renowned for its crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile. With a slight bump and a quieter click, it strikes a balance between tactile feedback and a more subtle audial experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch that embodies smoothness and buttery goodness. Its low, "thocky" sound accompanied by satisfyingly thick resistance makes it a versatile option for both gaming and typing purposes. Known as the go-to switch for budget enthusiasts, it offers a solid all-purpose experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) Linear

$6.50 per 10

$2.33

$2.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Box Mute Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Milky Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate in the Box Mute Jade creates a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its relatively stiffer nature. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a clear and resonant sound profile, especially when accompanied by RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition. The nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.

Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, we see a similar pattern. Both the Box Mute Jade and the Milky Yellow Pro employ nylon for their bottom housings. This choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of the nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the sound produced by pressing down on the switches of either keyboard will exhibit these qualities associated with nylon housings.

It is noteworthy that the top and bottom housings of a given switch play distinct roles in determining the overall sound and feel. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing become prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing's impact on the sound is more evident when letting go of a key. While the specific housing materials may vary between the Box Mute Jade and the Milky Yellow Pro, these general principles still apply. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, with a differentiation in the sound produced when releasing a key.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, requiring a stronger push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, allowing for a more effortless typing experience.

Similarly, the bottom out force of the Box Mute Jade is heavier at 82 grams, providing a more substantial and satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a moderate bottom out force of 62 grams, striking a balance between a lighter touch and a decent amount of resistance.

These differences in weight have their own advantages depending on personal preferences and usage scenarios. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces would be a suitable choice. It allows for enhanced endurance during long typing sessions or gaming marathons.

However, those who crave a more substantial and forceful keystroke sensation may find the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Box Mute Jade more satisfying. The tactile feedback and increased resistance can provide a sense of precision and control that some users desire.

In conclusion, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ significantly, with the former being heavier and the latter being lighter. Ultimately, the preference between these switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a more traditional travel distance, while the Box Mute Jade is slightly shorter. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, so if you prioritize quickness and responsiveness, the Box Mute Jade would be a good choice. On the other hand, some people prefer a deeper feel when typing, and for them, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its longer travel distance might provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance for your typing needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is known for its somewhat subdued sound profile compared to other clicky switches. It provides a crunchy feel, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. When using these switches, you can expect a slight bump in the keystroke and a quieter but still unmistakably clicky sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a different sound experience. These switches are characterized as bassy, with a lower frequency range that provides a deeper and richer sound during key presses. They also have a low-pitched thocky sound, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when pressed and released. It's worth noting that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Box Mute Jade switch offers an accented tactile experience. It falls into the category of medium tactile switches, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It also has a stiff feel, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. Furthermore, the Box Mute Jade is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience, which can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubing.

In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its buttery feel. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. As for texture, they are generally smoother and offer a friction-free typing experience. Some users may prefer a textured or scratchy switch for a subtle feedback sensation, but the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) leans towards a smoother typing experience.

Considering all the available information, it's clear that the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy feel and a quieter clicky sound, making it suitable for those who appreciate a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery smooth feel and a low-pitched, thocky sound, making it an all-purpose switch that excels in gaming and typing. When choosing between these two switches, you can expect different tactile experiences and sound profiles to suit your preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you like the feeling of a heavier switch with a pronounced clicky sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the way to go. These switches provide a satisfying bump and a quieter clicky sound, making them ideal for those who prefer a more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, if you're looking for a budget-friendly switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro linear switch is a perfect choice. These switches offer a smooth and buttery keystroke experience, accompanied by a low, "thocky" sound. With its medium bottom out force and versatile performance, the Milky Yellow Pro is a go-to switch for budget enthusiasts. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to your personal preference for heaviness and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) Linear

$2.33

$2.30 per 10

Learn more