Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion

Overview

If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may find yourself torn between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Onion. On one hand, the Box Mute Jade is perfect for those who enjoy the satisfying crunch of a clicky switch but prefer a slightly quieter sound profile. With its accented and stiff feel, it provides a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion stands out with its unique polycarbonate and nylon housing, offering a buttery smooth keystroke that is deeply satisfying. It provides a crisp, responsive feel and boasts a neutral sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, it is clear that they share the same polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer plastic of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing their aesthetic appeal.

However, the main point of differentiation lies in the nylon bottom housing used in each switch. The Box Mute Jade employs nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. In contrast, the WS Onion also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides similar qualities of a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its absorbent nature. Both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing's ability to enhance the sound experience.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, although used in different switches, offers comparable results. Both switches share the advantages of a more distinct sound profile and improved resonance due to the stiffer polycarbonate material. Additionally, the nylon material in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound overall. So, while they may have slight variations in the specific qualities of their sound profiles, the similarities ensure that users can expect a satisfying typing experience from either switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, we can see some notable differences. Firstly, the Box Mute Jade has an actuation force of 75 grams, providing a relatively heavy push feel required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the WS Onion's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to determine the exact force required for key activation. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade has a force of 82 grams, making it heavier compared to the WS Onion's bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range. For those who prefer lighter switches, the WS Onion would be a suitable choice, as it allows for extended typing without excessive strain. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade would appeal to individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Overall, while both switches have differing actuation and bottom out forces, considering one's preference for a lighter or heavier switch will determine the most appropriate choice, as both options offer unique benefits.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm distance. On the other hand, the WS Onion has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm, which falls within the traditional range.

The shorter travel distance of the Box Mute Jade clicky switch can be advantageous for gamers who prefer quicker response times. It allows for swift and immediate key presses, which can be crucial in gaming scenarios. On the contrary, the longer travel distance of the WS Onion linear switch may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a deeper and more tactile typing experience. The extra travel distance provides a sense of solidity and reassurance in each keystroke.

Both switches offer distinct benefits based on personal preference. If you desire a more responsive and nimble typing experience, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be the suitable choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial and deliberate key press, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch with its longer travel distance would be the better option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is best known for its crunchiness. This means that when you use these switches, they produce a sound that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. While the sound is unmistakably clicky, it is more subdued compared to other clicky switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile and does not lean towards being too loud or too quiet. The sound produced by the WS Onion is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers an accented and stiff typing experience. The accented feel refers to a medium tactile switch that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. This means that you can feel a slight bump when pressing the keys, enhancing the typing experience. The stiffness of these switches requires more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. This means that you will need to apply more force when pressing the keys with these switches. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This adds to the overall sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offers a buttery and polished typing experience. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Similar to the Box Mute Jade, the WS Onion also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In summary, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is best known for its crunchy sound profile, accented and stiff feel, and polished finish. This switch provides a more subdued clicky experience compared to other clicky switches, making it suitable for those who enjoy the tactile feedback without the loudness. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offers a neutral sound profile and a buttery and polished feel. The WS Onion provides a smooth and fluid typing experience without the need for tactile feedback. Both switches have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on your personal preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and distinct clicky sound of a switch but prefer a quieter typing experience, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the ideal choice for you. With its heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, you can expect a more pronounced tactile bump and a satisfying keystroke. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade switch offers a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you prioritize a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a neutral sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches provide a crisp and responsive typing experience. The WS Onion switch features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, contributing to its smooth and fluid keystrokes. Just like the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch, the WS Onion switch also boasts a polished finish for reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch depends on your personal preference for sound and feel. If you value a quieter clicky experience with a heavier tactile feedback, the Box Mute Jade switch is the way to go. However, if you prioritize a buttery smooth keystroke with a neutral sound profile, the WS Onion switch is the ideal choice. Consider your typing preferences and needs to make an informed decision.

Mentioned in this article