Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two options worth considering are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Strawberry. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that stands out for its crunchy feel and more subdued sound profile. It provides a slight bump when pressed and emits a quieter but unmistakably clicky sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry is a linear switch known for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. Featuring an attractive pink and clear housing, it offers a low-pitched sound and a frictionless, silky, and buttery typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct advantages, appealing to different preferences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about which switch suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 KTT Strawberry both feature polycarbonate top housings, which brings about similar effects in terms of sound profile. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, both switches are aesthetically pleasing when used with RGB lighting due to the translucency of polycarbonate. Overall, users can expect a comparable sound experience when using either switch.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Box Mute Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Strawberry utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Box Mute Jade contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry aligns with the characteristics of the polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Therefore, the choice of bottom housing material will impact the overall sound profile and feel of the switch.
When it comes to typing experience, the choice of top and bottom housing materials also plays a role. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it is nylon or polycarbonate, will be felt when pressing down on the switch. This includes the bottom-out sound and feel, which can vary depending on the housing material. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, users can anticipate different tactile sensations and sound variations based on the combination of top and bottom housing materials in each switch.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Strawberry share similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housings. However, their differences lie in the choice of bottom housing material, with the Box Mute Jade featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Strawberry featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing. These variations result in different sound characteristics and typing experiences. It is important for users to consider their desired sound profile and tactile feel when selecting between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, requiring a significant amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Strawberry has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, providing a much lighter touch for typing.
Similarly, the bottom out force of these switches also varies. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, resulting in a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push. On the other hand, the Strawberry has a lower bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a slightly lighter and more effortless typing experience.
Considering the weight of these switches is worth noting as it can directly impact one's typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Strawberry switch, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing, which can be beneficial for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for individuals who seek a more robust and substantial typing experience, the Box Mute Jade switch with its heavier forces would be the suitable choice. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box Mute Jade switch, as it allows for faster response times. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt and prefer the longer travel distance of the Strawberry switch for a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 is best described as having a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Despite being a clicky switch, the sound is more subdued and quieter compared to other clicky switches. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound, which tends to have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch can be described as having an accented feel. This means that it provides a noticeable amount of tactility without being overly tactile or scratchy, making it a medium tactile switch. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade switch is also considered stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. The switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch offers a frictionless feel, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. It is described as silky, offering exceptional smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the Strawberry switch is also referred to as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Like the Box Mute Jade switch, the Strawberry switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch and the KTT Strawberry switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade switch provides a crunchy and clicky sound, with an accented and stiff feel, while offering a polished finish for reduced friction. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch has a low-pitched sound, offers a frictionless and silky feel, and provides a buttery typing sensation, with a polished finish as well. It's important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as typing style and keycap compatibility when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you enjoy the satisfying crunch of a clicky switch but prefer a quieter sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade would be an excellent choice for you. These switches provide a subtle bump and a more subdued clicky sound. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a frictionless and silky feel, enhancing the smoothness of the typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the Box Mute Jade and the Strawberry depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Whether you prefer the accented and stiff feel of the Box Mute Jade or the buttery and polished feel of the Strawberry, both switches offer their unique advantages. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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