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Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Dareu Sky V3

An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Dareu Sky V3 offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that provides a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy clicky switches but prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is a linear switch known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a balance between comfort and precision. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, with the Box Mute Jade being accentuated, crunchy, stiff, and polished, while the Sky V3 is neutral, subdued, and mild. 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

40g

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

4.00 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

Nylon

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Kailh Box spring

Spring

Gold-plated spring

Housing materials

Both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Dareu Sky V3 feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by these switches. In addition, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for use with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the keyboards they are used in. Therefore, users of both switches can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and visual effects when utilizing the RGB lighting feature.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Dareu Sky V3 differ in material, with the former featuring a nylon bottom housing and the latter also utilizing nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for their bottom housing. Despite this difference in material, the end result for both switches will be a similar deep and full sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience.

The split between the top and bottom housings of a switch allows for the qualities of each housing material to be felt and heard in different aspects of typing. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is more influenced by the bottom housing, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the two housings provides a well-rounded typing experience that combines the sharpness and clarity of a polycarbonate top housing with the depth and fullness of a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a balanced sound profile that satisfies both auditory and tactile senses.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch are quite different. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V3 has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter force may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier force may provide a more satisfying push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is clear that the Box Mute Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Sky V3. The Box Mute Jade's shorter travel distance would be preferred by those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, while the Sky V3's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the Box Mute Jade providing a quicker, more responsive feel and the Sky V3 offering a slightly more deliberate press. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.

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

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is known for its crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound signature that is suitable for various typing preferences. The Box Mute Jade provides a quieter yet unmistakably clicky experience, while the Sky V3 delivers a more moderate sound that is comfortable for both beginners and professionals. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced clicky sound or a more neutral and versatile sound profile in your typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers an accented and stiff typing experience with a polished finish, providing a medium tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch provides a milder and gentler typing experience that offers a safe middle-ground feel for most users. The Box Mute Jade requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, making it more suitable for those who prefer a firmer typing feel. In comparison, the Sky V3 offers a smoother key travel and reduced friction for a more approachable typing experience.

Overall, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch each have their own distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prioritize a clicky sound with a crunchy feel and stiff typing experience, the Box Mute Jade may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound and a gentler typing feel with a polished finish, the Sky V3 could be more suited to your preferences. Remember that individual preferences play a significant role in the switch selection process, and trying out both switches on different keyboards and keycap setups may provide a better idea of which one aligns more closely with your typing style.

Conclusion

Ultimately, when deciding between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a clicky switch with a heavier actuation force and a more subdued sound profile, the Box Mute Jade would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 might be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what feels and sounds best to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the perfect switch for you is the one that enhances your typing experience and brings you the most satisfaction.

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