Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi offer two distinct options to consider. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that combines a satisfying crunch with a more subdued sound profile. It delivers a slight bump when pressed and emits a quieter, yet unmistakably clicky sound. On the other hand, the WS Morandi is a linear switch that prioritizes innovation and visual aesthetics. Its ultra-smooth linear action is enhanced by a mesmerizing light diffusing effect, perfect for those who enjoy RGB visuals. The WS Morandi switches also offer a unique dry and airy smoothness due to the UPE stem, distinguishing them from traditionally lubed switches. While both switches boast their own appealing features, such as the Box Mute Jade's crunchy feel and the WS Morandi's buttery smoothness, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi use different materials for their top housings. The Box Mute Jade utilizes polycarbonate, which gives it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the WS Morandi features a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials have their unique appeal, polycarbonate offers a clearer and more vibrant sound, whereas POM creates a more subdued and soothing typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, the Box Mute Jade employs nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a rounder, duller tone. On the other hand, the WS Morandi also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a similarly deep and muted sound profile. Both materials contribute to a satisfying auditory experience, with nylon offering a fuller sound and POM providing a pleasingly muffled tone.
The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings in these switches splits the qualities and impacts the sound profile in distinct ways. When pressing down a key on these switches, the bottom housing's properties become more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The softer nature of nylon or POM in the bottom housing will contribute to a more cushioned and dampened typing experience. Conversely, when you release a key, the top housing takes center stage, shaping the sound that is produced. Whether it be the crispness of polycarbonate or the muted quality of POM, the top housing of these switches will have a significant impact on the sound when keys are let go.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, their differences become evident. The Box Mute Jade has a relatively heavy actuation force of 75 grams, while the WS Morandi's actuation force remains unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Box Mute Jade is even heavier at 82 grams, while the WS Morandi has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams.
Considering the weight aspect, the Box Mute Jade switch is noticeably heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces. This heaviness may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience, as the stronger push feel can provide a satisfying response. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch offers a lighter typing experience with its medium bottom out force. This lighter weight might be preferred by individuals aiming for longer typing or gaming sessions, especially if portability and extended usage are priorities.
Unfortunately, due to the unavailability of specific figures for the WS Morandi's actuation force, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in that aspect. However, it is safe to assume that the actuation force of the WS Morandi is either on par with the Box Mute Jade or lighter, as a heavier force would likely be mentioned by Wuque Studio. Therefore, if one desires a similar actuation force experience, the WS Morandi switch would likely yield comparable results to the Box Mute Jade, but with a lighter bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. Choosing the shorter option, the WS Morandi, would provide a more responsive feel. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt. For those who prefer a greater sense of depth, the Kailh Box Mute Jade, with its slightly longer travel distance, may be the preferred choice. Overall, the difference in travel distance between these two switches is minimal, so they are likely to yield similar results in terms of feeling and response.
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 Morandi comes in at $3.90.
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 using these switches, there is a slight bump felt when typing and a quieter, yet unmistakably clicky sound. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch offers an innovative design with a light-diffusing column that enhances RGB visuals. These ultra-smooth linear switches have a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness. When typing on the WS Morandi switches, a slightly more muted sound profile is experienced.
In terms of sound, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch produces a distinct crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the WS Morandi linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound with a more subdued and dampened tone. It is not completely silent, but it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Additionally, the WS Morandi switch is also described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released.
When it comes to feel, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch is described as having an accented tactile feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. It is also considered stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. The switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the WS Morandi linear switch offers a buttery and creamy typing experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation. The switch feels silky, enhancing smoothness and minimizing resistance during keystrokes.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy feel with a more subdued clicky sound, while the WS Morandi offers a more muted sound profile with a low-pitched and thocky characteristic. In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade is accented, stiff, and polished, while the WS Morandi is buttery, creamy, and silky. Depending on personal preferences, both switches offer unique typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a heavy switch with a distinct clicky sound but a quieter tone, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch would be the ideal choice for you. The crunchy feel and subdued sound profile of these switches make them a great option for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of clicky switches without the loud noise. On the other hand, if you value both innovation and visual aesthetics, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch would be a fantastic option. With a medium weight, enhanced RGB visuals, and a slightly muted sound profile, these switches strike the perfect balance between form and function. The smooth and fluid keystroke experience, along with the mesmerizing light diffusion, makes the WS Morandi switches a delightful choice for typing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences in terms of sound and feel, as the Box Mute Jade offers a crunchy and accented experience, while the WS Morandi provides a low-pitched and buttery feel. Thus, choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience and aesthetics.
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