Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Box Mute Jade is best known for its crunchy feel and more subdued sound profile, making it perfect for those who enjoy the satisfying click of a switch without the loud noise. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a very approachable tactility. Additionally, it features a deep and thocky sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both utilize 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, both switches feature a translucent top housing, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. However, it is important to note that the qualities of the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
In contrast, the Box Mute Jade incorporates a nylon bottom housing, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring uses a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on the Box Mute Jade with its nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring contributes to its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The bottom housing material has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housings, which enhance the clarity and resonance of the sound. Both switches also offer the benefit of being compatible with RGB lighting due to their translucent top housings. However, their differentiation lies in the bottom housing material. The Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the desired sound profile and personal preference.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom-out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, requiring a stronger push to trigger a keystroke, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams, allowing for a more effortless typing experience. In terms of bottom-out force, the Box Mute Jade weighs in at a hefty 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel when pressing all the way down. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a more moderate bottom out force of 55 grams, ensuring a medium-light touch. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a more comfortable option for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Box Mute Jade is favored by those seeking a stronger, more tactile typing experience. Overall, while the Box Mute Jade is heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a more effortless and lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm.
The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is closer to the traditional travel distance, providing a more familiar feel when typing. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Box Mute Jade is slightly shorter, making it a preferred choice among gamers who require faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses, which can be advantageous in competitive gaming scenarios where swift reactions are crucial.
However, it's important to note that personal preferences also play a significant role in the choice of switch travel distance. Some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt, leading them to prefer the switch with the longer travel distance. The longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring can provide a more satisfying sensation of depth when typing or gaming.
In summary, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, the Box Mute Jade offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Choosing between the two depends on whether you prioritize faster response times or prefer a more substantial keystroke depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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 switch offers a unique experience for those who enjoy the feeling of a clicky switch but prefer a more subdued sound profile. The switch provides a slight bump and a quieter, yet still unmistakably clicky, sound signature. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is unknown, as it is not described in the provided information. However, it is worth noting that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Box Mute Jade switch is described as having an accented feel, which is commonly associated with a medium level of tactility. It provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the switch is categorized as stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. It is also mentioned that the Box Mute Jade switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. As for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch, it is described as having a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel and provides rebound when pressed.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a crunchy feel and a more subdued clicky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the tactile and audible feedback of a clicky switch without it being too loud. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch provides a medium level of tactility, a lower actuation and bottom-out force, and a deep and thocky sound profile. While the sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is not known, it can be a reliable choice for those seeking a tactile switch with a bouncy feel. It is always important to consider personal preferences and other factors, such as the keyboard and keycaps, when choosing the right switch for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, if you enjoy a heavier and more pronounced clicky sound, along with a prominent level of tactility that is not overwhelming, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its crunchy feel and subdued sound profile provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is highly recommended. With its deep and thocky sound profile, along with the bouncy and spring-like feedback sensation, it offers a more approachable and lively typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for both sound and feel.
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