Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, there are two standout options to consider: the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Quinn. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a satisfying, crunchy feel, without the loud audibility commonly associated with clicky switches. With a slight bump and a quieter, unmistakably clicky sound, this switch delivers a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Quinn is a tactile switch that boasts a unique combination of crisp, light-switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. Its specially designed nylon housings contribute to a rich and immersive typing experience, with a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Quinn differ in their housing materials, with the Box Mute Jade featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Quinn uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Mute Jade creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Quinn's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate material's translucency is also beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting. However, both switches utilize nylon bottom housings, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on them.
The choice of housing materials in the Box Mute Jade and the Quinn contributes to their distinct sound characteristics. The stiffer polycarbonate used in the Box Mute Jade's top housing produces a higher-pitched sound, which creates a more clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the softer nylon material in the Quinn's top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. These differences in sound can make a noticeable impact when typing, as the sound when let go of a key will be influenced by the top housing material.
While the top and bottom housings of these switches differ, they both share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. This means that the qualities brought by the nylon material, such as a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound, are present in both switches. When pressing down on the switches, the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be evident in both the Box Mute Jade and the Quinn. Overall, while the top and bottom housings may differ or be the same, these switches provide similar results in terms of the deeper and fuller sound profile achieved through the use of nylon in their construction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, we can observe some notable differences. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, requiring a stronger push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Quinn has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams, allowing for a softer touch. Similarly, when considering the bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade is also heavier at 82 grams compared to the Quinn's 67 grams. This indicates that the Box Mute Jade provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger resistance, while the Quinn offers a slightly lighter and more ergonomic feel. For individuals who prefer a lighter switch, particularly for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming, the Quinn is the preferable choice. Alternatively, those seeking a more tactile and forceful typing experience may find the Box Mute Jade to be a suitable option. Overall, weight plays a significant role in providing users with their desired typing experience, with lighter switches offering increased comfort and heavier switches delivering a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have a travel distance that falls within the shorter range compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gateron Quinn switch. The 3.4 mm travel distance allows for quicker keypresses, resulting in a more responsive gaming experience. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke may lean towards the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch with its slightly longer 3.6 mm travel distance. Although the difference in travel distance is minimal, the extra 0.2 mm may provide a more pronounced and substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
The Kailh Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 more subdued sound profile with a slight bump when pressed. This switch is known for its unmistakably clicky sound, but it is quieter compared to other clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a deep and resonant sound profile, thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. With each keystroke, users can expect a rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. The Quinn switch also offers a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you are looking for a clicky switch with a more subdued sound, the Box Mute Jade is a great choice. If you prefer a deep and resonant sound with a tactile bump, the Quinn switch is a suitable option.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is described as accented, which means it provides a notable amount of tactility without being overwhelming. It has a crunchy feel, which is commonly associated with clicky switches. Additionally, these switches are characterized as stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. The Box Mute Jade is also referred to as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a snappy feel, making it super responsive. This is attributed to longer or dual-staged springs in the switch design, enhancing the typing experience and making it feel more alive. Similar to the Box Mute Jade, the Quinn switch is also described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Quinn switch offers a bouncy feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. It is also considered accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Quinn switch can be described as buttery and creamy, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a more subdued clicky sound with a slight bump and a crunchy feel. It is also characterized as stiff and polished. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a deep and resonant sound, combined with a precise and crisp tactile bump. It has a snappy feel, is polished, bouncy, and accented. Both switches offer unique qualities that enhance the typing experience. If you prefer a quieter clicky switch with a crunchy feel, the Box Mute Jade is a good choice. If you desire a deep and resonant sound with a tactile bump and a snappy feel, the Quinn switch is a suitable option.
Conclusion
In closing, if you enjoy the satisfying crunchiness of a clicky switch while still having a quieter sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches are the perfect choice for you. These switches offer a slight bump and a more subdued clicky sound, providing an enjoyable typing experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound, the Gateron Quinn tactile switches are the way to go. With each keystroke, you will be greeted with a rich, immersive sound that adds character to your typing. Additionally, the Quinn switches offer a precise and clean tactile bump. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
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