Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Mute Jade, a clicky switch, to the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch, it's important to consider the distinct characteristics of each. The Box Mute Jade offers a unique experience for those who enjoy the clicky feel but prefer a more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion provides a pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, with a neutral sound signature adding to its appeal. Both switches offer different qualities that cater to specific preferences, with the Box Mute Jade being more accented, crunchy, and stiff, while the Thunder Shadow is described as invigorating and neutral. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, resulting in sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, adding an aesthetically pleasing element to these switches. Since both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and visual appeal.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Box Mute Jade and Thunder Shadow differ in their choice of nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience on switches using nylon bottom housings. Despite having different bottom housing materials, both switches provide a unique feel and sound profile that is influenced by the characteristics of nylon.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offers a balance of sharpness, clarity, depth, and fullness in sound output. While the top housings contribute to the sound when keys are released, the bottom housings have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. By understanding how the housing materials influence the typing experience, users can choose the switch that best suits their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch which has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the Box Mute Jade is also heavier at 82 grams, while the Thunder Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that the Box Mute Jade clicky switch is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Thunder Shadow tactile switch. This difference in weight can impact the typing experience, with some preferring the lighter weight for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier weight for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular among users, especially gamers looking for faster response times. The difference of 0.1mm between the two switches may not be noticeable to everyone, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper press, the Box Mute Jade might be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly shallower press for quicker typing or gaming, the Thunder Shadow could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance that can provide a responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 offers a unique and distinct "crunchy" sound that is associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer different sound experiences, with the Box Mute Jade providing a quieter click while the Thunder Shadow offers a more balanced and neutral sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch is described as providing an accented tactile bump with a stiff and polished feel, offering a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers an invigorating tactile feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive typing sensation. While the Box Mute Jade offers a more defined tactile feel with its accented bump, the Thunder Shadow provides a snappy and reactive feel for a different typing experience.
Overall, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a quieter click and a more subdued sound profile, the Box Mute Jade may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a balanced and invigorating typing experience with pronounced tactile feedback, the Thunder Shadow may be the switch of choice. Ultimately, both switches offer satisfying typing experiences, and selecting either one will result in a high-quality mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom-out force, sound profile, and tactile feel. If you prefer a heavier switch with a crunchy feel and a subdued sound, the Box Mute Jade is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a pronounced tactile bump and a neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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