Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Lotus. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a satisfying tactile feedback with a quieter sound profile compared to other clicky switches. On the other hand, the Lotus is a linear switch that provides a smooth and consistent typing experience. If you prefer a crunchy feel and a distinct clicky sound, the Box Mute Jade may be the switch for you. Alternatively, if you prefer a more subtle and consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Lotus could be the better option. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
pom
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Lotus, one key difference lies in the top housing material. The Box Mute Jade utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. In contrast, the Lotus features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the choice between a crisper sound with polycarbonate or a rounder sound with nylon will ultimately come down to personal preference.
Another point of comparison between the two switches is their bottom housing material. Both the Box Mute Jade and the Lotus use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Despite having different top housing materials, the switches share a similarity in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing, providing a consistent sound profile that enthusiasts may appreciate.
When considering the impact of housing materials on typing experience, it is essential to recognize how the qualities of each material influence the sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Box Mute Jade and the Lotus respectively offers a well-rounded sound profile with distinct characteristics in both the top and bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is clear that the Box Mute Jade is heavier while the Lotus is lighter. The Box Mute Jade has an actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods of time. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Lotus may be the better option, while the Box Mute Jade is more suitable for those who enjoy a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, we can see that the Lotus has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Box Mute Jade. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly quicker actuation time for the Lotus switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for the feel of the key press - whether you prefer a slightly deeper press with the Box Mute Jade or a quicker, shallower press with the Outemu Lotus.
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 Lotus 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is best known for its crunchy and subdued profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. In contrast, the sound profile of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is unknown. The subjective experience of sound can also be affected by variables like the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Regarding the feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch offers an accented and slightly stiff tactile feedback, giving a balanced tactile sensation without being overwhelming. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the tactile feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is unknown. For those interested in a tactile switch with a pronounced but not overpowering feel, the Box Mute Jade could be a suitable choice.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch excels in providing a crunchy sound profile and a tactile feel that strikes a balance between tactility and smoothness. The Outemu Lotus linear switch lacks known information on sound and feel, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches. Depending on personal preference, both switches may offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. It's essential to consider key factors such as sound, feel, and typing experience when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a heavy bottom out force and a more subdued clicky sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a linear switch without any tactile feedback, the Outemu Lotus would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for key feel and sound. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you value the most when making your decision.
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