Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a satisfying clicking sensation, both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Phoenix are excellent options to consider. The Box Mute Jade offers a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy clicky switches without the intense noise. On the other hand, the Phoenix stands out for its under-skirt click mechanism, which provides a unique and crystalline feel and sound. While both switches share the characteristics of being crunchy and polished, they each have their own distinctive qualities. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Phoenix have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for switches that are intended to be used with RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits from both switches when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a notable difference between the two switches. The Box Mute Jade employs a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which, as mentioned before, creates a sharper and more resonant sound. This distinction means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will be influenced more by the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key will be more affected by the top housing.
In summary, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Outemu Phoenix share similar characteristics when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, they differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing leads to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharpness and resonance. Therefore, users can expect variations in the bottom-out sound and feel between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, there are some notable differences. The Box Mute Jade has an actuation force of 75 grams, allowing for a satisfying tactile response upon keystroke activation. In contrast, the actuation force of the Phoenix is not known, making it difficult to gauge the precise level of force required. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade boasts a heavier 82 grams, providing a solid and substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix has a lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, which may appeal to those who prefer a less strenuous typing sensation. Ultimately, those seeking a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Phoenix, while individuals who appreciate a stronger push feel may prefer the heavier force of the Box Mute Jade.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In the case of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, there is a noticeable difference in their travel distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Phoenix has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches are shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance but still offer a good amount of depth for typing or gaming.
If you are a gamer looking for a faster response time, the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix switch may be more suitable for you. The reduced distance can result in quicker key presses and improved reaction times during gameplay. On the other hand, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix switch to feel too abrupt, lacking the satisfying depth of a longer travel distance. In this case, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch with its slightly longer travel distance would be a better option.
Ultimately, the choice between a shorter or longer travel distance depends on personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a more responsive feel with shorter travel, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you enjoy a more substantial depth when pressing down on keys, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Whichever option you choose, both switches offer their own unique benefits, delivering a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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, both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Outemu Phoenix switches are categorized as "crunchy." This refers to the clicky sound that is commonly associated with clicky switches, resembling the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. However, the Box Mute Jade is known for providing a more subdued sound profile compared to the unmistakable clicky sound of the Phoenix. It offers a quieter click experience while still retaining the satisfying crunchiness. It is important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel, the Box Mute Jade is classified as an "accented" switch. This term is frequently used to describe a specific type of tactile switch that provides a medium level of tactility without being overly pronounced or subtle. It offers a noticeable bump when pressed but does not overwhelm the user with excessive tactility. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade is considered as a "stiff" switch, meaning it requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches. This characteristic translates into a more deliberate typing experience where users need to apply slightly more force while pressing the keys. Furthermore, the Box Mute Jade is described as "polished," indicating that it possesses a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and a sleek typing sensation, potentially leading to smoother key travel.
On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix switch is also described as "polished," sharing the same smooth and refined finish as the Box Mute Jade. This characteristic contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While no information is provided on the specific tactile feeling of the Phoenix, it is safe to assume that it offers a similar level of tactility as other clicky switches.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Outemu Phoenix switches share some similarities in terms of their sound and feel. Both are categorized as "crunchy" clicky switches, offering a satisfying sound reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. They also feature a "polished" finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. However, the Box Mute Jade is known for its quieter yet unmistakably clicky sound profile and its medium level of tactility combined with a stiffer key press. While the exact tactile feeling of the Phoenix is unknown, users can expect a similar polished finish and smooth key travel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you enjoy the crunchy feel of a clicky switch but prefer a quieter sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 82 grams, it offers a heavier feel when typing. The Box Mute Jade also has a polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, if you value a unique and sparkling clicky sound, the Outemu Phoenix switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a medium level of resistance. The under-skirt click mechanism adds to its distinct sound and feel. Like the Box Mute Jade, the Phoenix switch also features a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, your preference for sound and feel will determine which switch is the better fit for you.
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