Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a unique typing experience, you may find yourself considering the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Kailh Plum. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that combines a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile. It provides a slight bump and a quieter, unmistakably clicky sound when typing. On the other hand, the Plum is a tactile switch that stands out for its weightiness without featuring a huge tactile bump. This contrast makes it incredibly unique compared to other tactile switches. The Plum also offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. If you appreciate the satisfaction of a clicky switch with a more subdued sound, the Box Mute Jade may be the perfect choice for you. Alternatively, if you value a weighty typing experience with a unique tactile feel, the Plum could be the switch of your dreams. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Kailh Plum have similar housing materials when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is achieved because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better visibility of the lighting effects. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the two switches differ. The Box Mute Jade features a nylon bottom housing, while the Plum has a nylon bottom housing as well. Typing on switches that use nylon, such as both of these switches, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, the characteristics brought by the bottom housing, such as the bottom-out sound and feel, will vary between the Box Mute Jade and the Plum.
In summary, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Kailh Plum have similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housing. However, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Plum's nylon bottom housing results in a similar sound profile. Therefore, users can expect subtle differences in the overall sound and feel of these switches based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, we can see both similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Box Mute Jade requires 75 grams of force, while the exact actuation force of the Plum switch is unknown. However, it is worth noting that if one desires a lighter actuation force, both switches can provide similar results.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade switch has a higher bottom out force of 82 grams, indicating a heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a lower bottom out force of 70 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch to comfortably type for longer durations, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch with heavier actuation and bottom out forces caters to the latter preference.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Plum switch is unavailable, those desiring a lighter typing experience can achieve similar results with both switches. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch is heavier, making it more suitable for those seeking a more robust and substantial feel while typing.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience when it comes to the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. Therefore, whether you choose the Box Mute Jade or the Plum switch, you can expect to have a consistent travel distance of 3.6 mm.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 is best described as having a "crunchy" sound profile. This means that when using these switches, you can expect a sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a more neutral sound profile. It is considered to be a switch with a moderate sound level, suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a more subdued sound with a subtle click, the Box Mute Jade would be a great choice, while the Plum offers a more neutral and enjoyable sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch can be described as having accented tactility. This means that it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Additionally, these switches have a stiffer feel, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. They also have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a more mild typing experience. It is considered to be a mild switch, providing a gentle and approachable feel. These switches have a stepped design, which means you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke. This adds to the unique tactile experience of the Plum switch. Overall, if you prefer a switch with prominent tactility and a stiffer feel, the Box Mute Jade would be a suitable choice, while the Plum offers a more mild and stepped tactile feel.
Based on the available information, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy sound profile with subdued clicks, while the Plum offers a more neutral and enjoyable sound experience. In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade has accented tactility, a stiffer feel, and a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Plum provides a milder and stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style. Whether you prefer a more pronounced and crunchy experience or a gentle and unique tactility, both switches offer their own benefits.
Conclusion
In summary, if you enjoy the crunchy feel of a clicky switch and prefer a more subdued sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. This switch provides a slight bump when typing and produces a quieter, yet unmistakably clicky sound. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, which can contribute to a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a switch with a neutral sound profile and a more gentle typing experience, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a great option. The Plum switch feels quite hefty without featuring a significant tactile bump, making it unique among tactile switches. It has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a moderate actuation force requirement. Ultimately, both switches have their own distinct characteristics and it's important to consider your personal preferences when making a decision.
Mentioned in this article
