Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a unique and satisfying typing experience, you may find yourself torn between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the SP-Star RedBlue switches. On one hand, the Box Mute Jade offers a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch without the excessive noise. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches provide a medium-light typing experience with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. These switches are particularly well-suited for individuals who prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can determine the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the SP-Star RedBlue both feature polycarbonate top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics, both switches offer similar results with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, the main difference lies in their bottom housings. The Box Mute Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the RedBlue features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced.
When using these switches, the qualities brought by the different housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between the Box Mute Jade and the RedBlue may depend on personal preference and the desired sound profile, with the Box Mute Jade offering a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the RedBlue provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Box Mute Jade has a relatively heavy actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unavailable, but its bottom out force is 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. It is worth noting that both switches have different weight profiles, with the Box Mute Jade being on the heavier side and the RedBlue being lighter. This is crucial to consider as different individuals may have their preferences. Some may prefer a lighter switch to type for longer periods, which is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, others may opt for a switch with a heavier actuation force for a more pronounced and satisfying push feel while typing. In terms of bottoming out, the SP-Star RedBlue switch requires less force compared to the Box Mute Jade, resulting in a lighter typing experience for those who prefer it. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches differ, providing users with a choice between a heavier and more substantial typing experience or a lighter and potentially prolonged typing session.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the RedBlue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the RedBlue allows for a deeper press compared to the Box Mute Jade. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered traditional, while a shorter travel distance of 3.0 mm is becoming more popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when pressing down on a key, the Box Mute Jade with its shorter travel distance would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a keyboard that provides a deeper and more substantial press, the RedBlue with its longer travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, it depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is best known for its crunchy feel and more subdued sound profile. When typing with these switches, you will feel a slight bump and hear a quieter, yet unmistakably clicky sound. This sound can be compared to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a medium-light typing experience with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. The sound of these switches is described as low-pitched, which typically means a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, the RedBlue switch is also characterized as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade switch can be described as accented, meaning it provides a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is not a hyper-tactile switch but still offers a noticeable bump. The switch is also considered stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. This means you will need to apply more force when pressing the keys with these switches. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade switch is polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a mild typing experience, delivering a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It provides a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel, making it approachable for most users. Similar to the Box Mute Jade, the RedBlue switch is also described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, while the RedBlue offers a medium-light typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile that is thocky. Both switches are polished, providing smooth and refined finishes for a sleek typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can choose the switch that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a heavier keypress and enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch with a quieter sound, then the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the ideal choice for you. The Box Mute Jade delivers a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a medium-light typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be a great fit. The RedBlue switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and offers a neutral typing experience suitable for various scenarios. Both switches feature a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel. Ultimately, the decision between the Box Mute Jade and the RedBlue switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
