Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note the distinct differences between the two. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience without the loud noise typically associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the Cold Plum is a linear switch that provides a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, perfect for enthusiasts looking for a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Cold Plum switches both feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, creating a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a quieter typing sound. In contrast, the top housing of the Box Mute Jade is made of polycarbonate, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. So, while both switches have nylon bottom housings, the Box Mute Jade's polycarbonate top housing offers a more distinct auditory experience.
On the aesthetic front, the Box Mute Jade's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a visually appealing option for users looking to customize their keyboards with colorful lighting effects. In comparison, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing does not offer the same translucency for RGB lighting, but instead provides a classic switch housing material known for its deeper and fuller sound profile. This showcases the trade-off between aesthetics and sound quality when choosing between the two switches. However, both switches prioritize delivering a satisfying typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to a quieter typing sound that is complemented by the respective top housings' sound profiles.
In terms of performance, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Cold Plum ultimately comes down to personal preferences in sound and aesthetics. The Box Mute Jade's polycarbonate top housing offers a crisper and more resonant sound profile, while the Cold Plum's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Meanwhile, both switches share a nylon bottom housing that enhances the overall typing experience with a quieter and more satisfying sound profile. Whether you prioritize a sharper sound with RGB lighting compatibility or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, with the Box Mute Jade being the heavier option and the Cold Plum being the lighter option. The Box Mute Jade has an actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, offering a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches provide distinct feels in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming purposes. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether the user prefers a heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is 3.3 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick response times. The Box Mute Jade has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth and feedback compared to the Cold Plum. However, both switches are shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, making them popular choices for gamers looking for speed and precision in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of feedback desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10.
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 crisp autumn leaves. This switch provides a quieter but still satisfying clicky sound experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile, offering a distinct and enjoyable typing experience. While the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, these two switches provide different auditory experiences for users.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade is described as having an accented tactile feedback that is not overly pronounced, creating a satisfying bump during typing. These switches also have a stiffness that requires a higher actuation force compared to other switches, resulting in a unique typing feel. Additionally, the polished finish of the Box Mute Jade switch contributes to a smooth and refined keystroke experience. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is not available. However, based on the description provided, users can expect a smooth keystroke experience due to the fully nylon construction of the switch.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a quieter clicky sound profile with an accented tactile feel, while the Cold Plum switch delivers a thocky sound and potentially a smooth keystroke experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person would provide the best understanding of which switch suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, your choice may ultimately come down to your preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a heavier switch with a pronounced clicky sound and a slightly stiff feel, the Box Mute Jade may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke, the Cold Plum could be the ideal option. Consider how you prioritize sound, feel, and overall typing experience when making your decision between these two unique switches.
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