Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are many options available to cater to individual preferences. Two popular choices that offer distinct typing experiences are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gazzew U4Tx switches. The Box Mute Jade is perfect for those who enjoy the satisfying crunch and tactile feedback of a clicky switch but prefer a more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer the best of both worlds with their refined sound profile, combining the deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet topping out. Each press on the U4Tx delivers a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gazzew U4Tx switches differ in terms of their sound profiles and aesthetics. The Box Mute Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic", which delivers a rich and deep sound profile. This soft plastic blend contributes to a more rounded and deep sound overall. Therefore, while both switch types offer distinct sound qualities, the Box Mute Jade produces a brighter and clearer sound, while the U4Tx creates a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Box Mute Jade incorporates a nylon material, which is renowned as a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings generates 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 experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx employs a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, also referred to as "boba plastic". This soft plastic blend contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feeling when pressing down on the switch. Hence, while both switches offer distinct sound qualities, the Box Mute Jade with its nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Gazzew U4Tx with its proprietary blend bottom housing provides a rich and deep sound.
When comparing the overall sound profile of the two switches, the combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role. The Box Mute Jade utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing and nylon for its bottom housing. This means that the qualities of the polycarbonate will primarily affect the sound when releasing a key, producing a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing will enhance the bottom-out sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Similarly, the Gazzew U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing and bottom housing. The softer "boba plastic" of the top housing contributes to a deep and rich sound upon key release, while the same material in the bottom housing further enhances the overall sound experience. Therefore, although the specific housing materials differ, both switches offer a unique combination of sound profiles based on the interplay between their top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Box Mute Jade has an actuation force of 75 grams, which is on the heavier side, while the U4Tx's actuation force is currently unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade requires 82 grams of force, making it slightly heavier than the U4Tx's 65 grams.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods without fatigue, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a more substantial typing experience and opt for switches with heavier forces. Both the Box Mute Jade and U4Tx can cater to these preferences with their respective weights.
Despite the unknown actuation force of the U4Tx, it is clear that the Box Mute Jade is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. While it may be challenging to provide a direct comparison between the two due to the missing information, users seeking a heavier switch could consider the Box Mute Jade, while those who prefer a medium-heavy switch might opt for the U4Tx. Overall, the weight of a switch plays a vital role in determining the typing experience, and selecting the appropriate force is crucial for individual preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.6 mm. When pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent distance of 3.6 mm from the top to the bottom. Thus, both switches offer a similar tactile feedback and typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $6.50. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Box Mute Jade and U4Tx.
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
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is best known for its crunchy feel and a more subdued sound profile. When typing on these switches, you will experience a slight bump and hear a quieter, but still unmistakably clicky sound. The Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a combination of the best qualities from both worlds. It provides a deep, resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, along with a whisper-quiet stealth sound when topping out. Each press on the U4Tx switch delivers a sharp, satisfying tactile bump, resulting in a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile.
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a bassy sound profile, characterized by a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Additionally, the U4Tx switch produces a muted sound, which is softer and quieter compared to regular or clacky switches. 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 clicky switch provides an accented tactile experience. It offers a medium level of tactility that is prominent but not overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, these switches are described as stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches. The polished finish of the Box Mute Jade switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback intensity. The strong and crisp tactile bump of the U4Tx switch can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Unfortunately, specific information about the feel and other qualities of the U4Tx switch is not available.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy and more subdued clicky sound, along with an accented and polished feel. The U4Tx, on the other hand, offers a bassy and muted sound profile, with a sharp and intense tactile feedback. While specific information about the U4Tx switch is limited, it seems to provide a unique typing experience combining the best of both worlds. Depending on your preferences, either switch can deliver satisfying results with their distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you enjoy the satisfying crunch and click of a switch but prefer a quieter sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 82 grams, it provides a heavier feel and an accented tactile experience without being overwhelming. Additionally, its polished finish ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner and more refined sound, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is the perfect option. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a medium-heavy feel and a sharp, satisfying tactile bump. The U4Tx provides a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out while remaining whisper-quiet when topping out. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Mentioned in this article
