Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Brown. Both switches offer unique features and advantages that cater to different preferences. The Box Mute Jade is best known for its clicky switch design, providing a satisfying crunchy feel while keeping the sound profile relatively subdued. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch but prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch offers a tactile experience without the audible click. With a medium-light actuation force, these switches strike a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making them ideal for extended typing sessions. Additionally, enthusiasts appreciate the familiar auditory experience that the WS Brown offers, thanks to its nylon housing and POM stem combination. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches differ in their choice of housing materials. The Box Mute Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Brown utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate material of the Box Mute Jade creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the WS Brown produces a deeper and fuller sound, resulting in a more rounded tone. Despite these differences, both switches offer clear housing options suitable for RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a dulled and rounder sound. This makes typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the housing materials may be the same for the bottom, the impact each housing material has on the bottom-out sound and feel is significant. The qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent when you press down on the switch, providing a distinct tactile sensation.
In terms of the overall sound produced, the housing materials play a vital role in creating the desired sound profile for these switches. The Box Mute Jade's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing combination result in a clear and resonant sound, emphasizing the higher frequencies. On the other hand, the WS Brown's nylon top and bottom housing combination produce a deeper and fuller sound, with a more rounded tone. Even though they differ, both switches offer unique sound experiences that cater to individual preferences. Despite these differences, the inputs from the top and bottom housings combine to create a complete and satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, while the WS Brown tactile switch's actuation force is unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade requires a hefty 82 grams to fully press down, whereas the WS Brown requires a lighter 55 grams.
The difference in actuation force means that the Box Mute Jade clicky switch would require a stronger finger press to register a keystroke, while the actuation force for the WS Brown switch remains unknown. Furthermore, the bottom out force of the Box Mute Jade is heavier, providing a more substantial typing experience as it requires more force to fully press down. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch offers a lighter typing experience with its lower bottom out force.
When weight is considered, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the WS Brown tactile switch. This heavier weight may be preferred by those seeking a more substantial typing experience, while those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming may opt for the WS Brown tactile switch. However, without the exact actuation force value for the WS Brown, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Nevertheless, both switches offer unique experiences, catering to different preferences and requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch is 3.8 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as they provide faster response times. If you are looking for a more responsive switch, the Kailh Box Mute Jade would be a suitable choice with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer switches with more depth. If you prefer a switch with a longer travel distance, the Wuque Studio WS Brown would be a better option, as its travel distance is slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness and depth of key press.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50.
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 offers a unique experience with its crunchy clicky sound profile. It provides a satisfying tactile feedback with a quieter sound compared to typical clicky switches. On the other hand, there is no information available about the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch. 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 being used.
When it comes to feel, the Box Mute Jade switch is described as having an accented tactile feedback, meaning it provides a noticeable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It is also considered to be a stiffer switch, requiring more force to actuate and bottom out. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish that results in smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, there is no information available about the feel of the WS Brown switch.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch offers a unique combination of a crunchy feel and a quieter clicky sound profile. It provides a medium tactile feedback and requires more force to actuate and bottom out. The WS Brown switch, on the other hand, does not have available information regarding its sound or feel. However, both switches can offer a pleasant typing experience, and if you enjoy the qualities of the Box Mute Jade, you can expect similar results with the WS Brown switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and clicky sound of a switch but prefer a quieter experience, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its heavy bottom out force of 82 grams, it provides a satisfying crunch and a more subdued sound profile. The Box Mute Jade offers an accented feel, providing a noticeable tactile bump without being overwhelming or scratchy. Additionally, its polished finish ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more familiar auditory experience, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch would be a great option. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, it strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it suitable for fatigue-free typing during extended sessions. The WS Brown switch offers a delightful auditory experience, thanks to its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider whether you value a quieter clicky switch with a heavier feel, or a lighter tactile switch with a familiar sound profile. Both of these switches have their own unique qualities, and either one can enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences.
Mentioned in this article
