Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Mute Jade, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, a tactile switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Box Mute Jade is ideal for those who enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a mechanical keyboard, but prefer a quieter typing experience. Its 'Accented', 'Crunchy', 'Stiff', and 'Polished' characteristics make it stand out for users who appreciate a tactile but relatively subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown lacks a specific standout feature description but is known for its tactile feedback without the audible click. This switch may appeal to those who prefer a tactile typing experience without the noise distraction. 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
65g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Box Mute Jade features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Dustproof Brown also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience.
When it comes to the tactile and auditory experience of typing on these switches, the bottom housing material plays a significant role. The nylon bottom housing of both the Box Mute Jade and the Dustproof Brown absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. This softer plastic material adds a depth to the typing sound that is not present with stiffer materials, creating a more satisfying tactile feedback for users.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Brown offer a unique typing experience that balances sharp, crisp sound profiles with deeper, fuller tones. While the top housing material influences the sound upon key release, the bottom housing material impacts the sound and feel of bottoming out a key. Whether one prefers a more resonant and clear typing experience or a deeper and fuller sound profile, both switches offer a well-rounded typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch. The Box Mute Jade requires a 75-gram actuation force and an 82-gram bottom out force, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown has a lighter 45-gram actuation force and a 65-gram bottom out force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Box Mute Jade offers a heavier feel, while the Dustproof Brown offers a medium-heavy touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Mute Jade offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for fast-paced gameplay. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch provides a slightly deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique characteristics, so the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 Dustproof Brown 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
Overall, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a unique combination of a crunchy sound profile and an accented, stiff feel. This makes it a great option for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with a quieter typing sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch does not have specific information available regarding its sound and feel qualities. Therefore, if you are looking for similar results to the Box Mute Jade, it is recommended to explore other tactile switch options with known characteristics that align with your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and clicky sound of a heavier switch, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch with its 82-gram bottom out force would be the ideal choice for you. The crunchy feel paired with a subdued sound profile makes it a unique and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch might be more suitable for you. While it may not have as distinct of a reputation as the Box Mute Jade, its smooth and refined feel can provide a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of weight, sound, and tactile feedback.
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