Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Box Mute Jade is ideal for those who enjoy the clicky feel of a switch but prefer a quieter sound profile. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are perfect for users looking for a bright, clacky typing experience with effortless actuation. While these general pointers can help you decide on a switch that aligns with your preferences, diving deeper into the characteristics of each switch will allow you to make a more informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are quite similar, as both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Box Mute Jade features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Salt Ice utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. These differences in bottom housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, the differences in bottom housing material will affect the typing experience for users. Typing on the Box Mute Jade with its nylon bottom housing will result in a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, typing on the Salt Ice with its polycarbonate bottom housing will provide a sharper and crisper sound profile, affecting the overall typing experience. The top housing material will also play a role in the sound produced when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributing to a clear and resonant sound.
In conclusion, while both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches share a polycarbonate top housing, their differences in bottom housing material impact the sound profile and typing experience for users. The Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile. Ultimately, whether a user prefers one over the other will depend on their preference for sound and typing feel, with each housing material bringing its own unique qualities to the switch.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a considerably heavier actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. The bottom out force of the Salt Ice switch is unknown, which may affect the overall typing feel. Those who prefer a heavier push feel may opt for the Box Mute Jade switch, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may prefer the Salt Ice switch. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these switches can greatly impact the typing experience and overall preference for users.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch's 3.4 mm travel distance. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quick and responsive key presses. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distances for faster response times. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Box Mute Jade to provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 quieter clicky sound profile, characterized as "crunchy" with a subtle and muted tone reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch provides a bright and clacky sound signature that is vibrant and energetic. The sound produced by each switch is unique and can be further influenced by the keyboard, keycaps, and other factors within your setup.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch offers an accented tactile feedback that is not overly pronounced but still noticeable, providing a balanced level of tactility that is not too light nor too aggressive. Additionally, these switches are described as stiff, requiring a moderate amount of force to actuate, and polished for a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is unavailable.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a more subdued sound profile and a balanced tactile feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a more vibrant and clacky sound with a light touch, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch may be the better option for you. Remember to consider all aspects of your typing experience, including sound, feel, and overall preference when selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a clicky switch but prefer a quieter typing experience, the Box Mute Jade would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and responsive typing experience with bright and clacky feedback, then the Salt Ice switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire.
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