Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Silver. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a unique blend of tactile feedback and a quieter sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying click without disturbing others. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is a linear switch that provides a smooth and consistent keypress without any tactile feedback or audible sound. While the Box Mute Jade is best suited for those who appreciate a crunchy feel and distinct sound, the Silver caters to individuals who seek a linear, silent typing experience. 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
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Silver, it is clear that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Box Mute Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics to the Box Mute Jade.
Despite both switches featuring the same top housing material of polycarbonate, the bottom housing material of nylon plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile of the switches. The split qualities of each housing material between the top and bottom contribute to different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This shows that even with similar top housing materials, the choice of bottom housing material can greatly influence the overall sound and feel of a switch.
In conclusion, while the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Silver both utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, their nylon bottom housings create distinct differences in the overall typing experience. The Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Outemu Silver's nylon bottom housing provides a similar effect. Understanding the impact of both top and bottom housing materials is essential in selecting a switch that aligns with one's preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Silver linear switch. The Box Mute Jade requires 75 grams of force to actuate and 82 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier option. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver only needs 45 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Silver, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Box Mute Jade. However, if both switches had the same actuation and bottom out forces, users would get similar results in terms of typing experience and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between a lighter or heavier switch comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Box Mute Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Box Mute Jade may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Silver may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Silver 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 and satisfying "crunchy" sound profile that is characteristic of clicky switches. This sound is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, providing a tactile and auditory experience that is pleasant to many users. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not have a known sound description, making it difficult to compare to the Box Mute Jade in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers an accented tactile experience with a noticeable bump, though it is not overly tactile or scratchy. Additionally, these switches are on the stiffer side, requiring a bit more force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches. The polished finish of the Box Mute Jade switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and providing a sleek key travel. On the other hand, there is no available information on the feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch, making it hard to draw a direct comparison in this aspect.
In conclusion, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a crunchy sound profile and a tactile feel with a noticeable bump, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch may be the right choice for you. The Outemu Silver linear switch, although lacking known descriptions for sound and feel, may provide a different typing experience altogether. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for you. Remember to consider all available information and perhaps try out both switches before making a decision to ensure you get the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're someone who enjoys a sturdy, clicky switch with a crunchy feel and a more subdued sound profile, then the Kailh Box Mute Jade would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Silver would be a great option for a smooth, quiet typing experience. Consider your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch will depend on your personal preference for typing experience.
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