Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Silent Yellow offer two distinct typing experiences. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that provides a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch without the loud noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke with no audible feedback, making it perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, but ultimately the choice between them depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
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 Silent Yellow, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This similarity in top housing material suggests that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches when it comes to the top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Box Mute Jade features a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Yellow also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material may influence the overall typing experience and the sound produced when pressing down on the keys. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, users can still expect a similar sound profile and typing experience from both switches given their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing.
In terms of functionality, the qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. This means that the choice of housing materials for each component of the switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience for users of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Silent Yellow.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams and bottom out force of 82 grams, while the Silent Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 65 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. The Box Mute Jade provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow offers a lighter actuation force, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, if you prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Yellow may be more suitable, but if you enjoy a heavier feel, the Box Mute Jade would be the better option.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Box Mute Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Silent Yellow's 4 mm. The Box Mute Jade offers a quicker response time due to its shorter distance, making it preferable for gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow provides a slightly deeper key press with its longer travel distance, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience 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 Silent Yellow 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 is a great option for those who enjoy a tactile bump and clicky sound but prefer a quieter typing experience. The switch has a crunchy sound profile and provides a slight bump when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch does not have any known descriptor for sound or feel qualities. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a unique sound profile and tactile feel, the Box Mute Jade would be a suitable choice. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider your personal typing style and preferences when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who enjoys a heavy, crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, then the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy linear switch with a silent operation, then the Outemu Silent Yellow switch would be more suitable. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force when deciding between these two switches to ensure that you choose the one that best complements your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Box Mute Jade and Silent Yellow switch will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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