Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the SP-Star Duck 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 typing experience, you may find yourself deciding between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the SP-Star Duck. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch, known for its crunchy feel and slightly subdued sound profile. This switch offers a satisfying tactile feedback with its accented, stiff keypress. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck is a tactile switch that provides a more subtle typing experience. With a gentle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile, these switches offer a mild, buttery keypress. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
58g
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 SP-Star Duck both feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide similar benefits. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting purposes. Therefore, if you are looking for switches that offer a distinct and vibrant sound profile along with the option of RGB lighting, both the Box Mute Jade and the SP-Star Duck would be suitable choices.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Box Mute Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the SP-Star Duck uses a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. Consequently, when typing on the Box Mute Jade, you will experience a rounder and duller sound, while the SP-Star Duck will provide a more clear and resonant sound. Depending on your preference for sound characteristics, you can choose between the deep and full sound of nylon or the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate.
It is important to note that the bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the differences between the nylon bottom housing of the Box Mute Jade and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the SP-Star Duck will be most noticeable during the actuation and release of the keys. However, both switches still share the common qualities of the polycarbonate top housing, resulting in similar sound characteristics upon key release. Thus, if you prioritize the sound and feel during actuation, the choice between the Box Mute Jade and SP-Star Duck will come down to your preference for either a deeper and fuller sound or a sharper and crisper sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Box Mute Jade has a relatively heavier actuation force of 75 grams, while the Duck's actuation force is unavailable. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Box Mute Jade is 82 grams, which again is heavier compared to the 58 grams of the Duck.
Considering weight, there are different preferences among users. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for typing or gaming sessions that can last for longer periods without causing strain or fatigue. This lighter force is particularly desirable for keyboards used at work or during extended gaming stints. On the contrary, there are users who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these users, opting for switches with heavier forces would be ideal.
When using the Box Mute Jade switch, the actuation force of 75 grams and bottom out force of 82 grams provide a heavier typing experience. This heavier tactile feedback may appeal to individuals seeking a more substantial keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch boasts a medium bottom out force of 58 grams; however, the actuation force for this switch is currently unknown. Therefore, if one desires a lighter and less forceful typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switch may be a suitable choice.
In summary, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the heavier option with its actuation force of 75 grams and bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, but the actuation force remains unknown. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for lighter or heavier actuation forces and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is clear that there is a difference in their distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm distance. On the other hand, the Duck offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. For those who prioritize quick response times, the shorter travel distance of the Box Mute Jade would be more appealing. This is particularly advantageous for gamers who require fast reactions during gameplay. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Duck switch more satisfying. It is important to consider personal preference and intended usage when selecting between the two switches. Ultimately, while they differ in travel distance, both switches are designed to deliver a reliable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch offers a unique "crunchy" sound profile that is commonly associated with clicky switches. It is often described as reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch has a more neutral sound profile that falls within a moderate range. It does not have the distinctive clicky sound, making it suitable for various purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch offers a combination of accented tactility and a slightly stiffer actuation force. It provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle, making it a medium tactile switch. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch provides a more mild typing experience with a gentle tactility. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to a wider range of users. Similar to the Box Mute Jade, the Duck switch also features a polished finish for a sleek typing experience.
In summary, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is known for its crunchy clicky sound profile and accented tactile feel. It offers a unique combination of a subdued sound and a medium level of tactility. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch provides a clean and crispy sound profile with a mild tactile feel. Both switches feature a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. If you prefer a quieter and crunchier typing experience with a medium tactile feel, the Box Mute Jade is the ideal choice. However, if you are seeking a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound, the SP-Star Duck is a suitable option. Regardless of the choice, both switches provide a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you enjoy a more pronounced and crunchy typing experience with a quieter sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a heavy bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a satisfying tactile bump and a distinctive clicky sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade switches are accented, stiff, and polished, offering a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming, requiring more force to actuate and providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and gentle typing experience, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be the perfect fit. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, these switches offer a mild level of tactility, providing a clean and crispy sound profile. The Duck switches are mild, buttery, and polished, offering a middle-ground typing experience that is approachable to most users. They provide a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, ensuring effortless and uniform typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer a clicky switch with a crunchy feel and subdued sound or a tactile switch with a more subtle and gentle typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing satisfaction. Consider your desired sound, feel, and bottom out force to make an informed decision that best suits your preferences.
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