Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear 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 Silent Linear. The Box Mute Jade is ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying crunch of a clicky switch but prefer a more subdued sound profile. With a slight bump and a quieter, yet unmistakably clicky, sound signature, these switches offer a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque elevate the office environment by reducing switch noise while maintaining exceptional responsiveness. With ingeniously designed stem railings and discreet cutouts, these linear switches offer a satisfying bottom-out and a distinct typing experience without the use of silicone dampeners. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Crunchy', 'Stiff', and 'Polished', the Box Mute Jade provides a unique tactile sensation, while the WS Silent Linear switches, categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Subdued', offer a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches differ in terms of their effects on sound profiles. The Box Mute Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature, which results in a clearer and more resonant sound. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile. Thus, if you prioritize a high-pitched and crisp sound, the Box Mute Jade may be the better option, while the WS Silent Linear is suitable for those seeking a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon as the material. Nylon is known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures that the typing experience produces a similar deep and full sound. Whether it's the Box Mute Jade or the WS Silent Linear, users can expect a consistent sound when pressing down on the keys.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the top and bottom housings play different roles. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. With the Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing and the WS Silent Linears' similar material choice, users will experience a similar depth and fullness in sound as they press down on the keys. On the other hand, the top housing has a more significant influence on the sound when the key is released. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Mute Jade creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound when keys are let go, while the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing generates a deeper and fuller sound during key release. Thus, depending on the desired sound when lifting a key, users can select the switch that aligns with their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Box Mute Jade requires a heavier actuation force of 75 grams compared to the unavailable value of the WS Silent Linear. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Box Mute Jade is heavier at 82 grams, while the WS Silent Linear measures at 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it can affect typing experience and comfort. Some individuals may prefer lighter switches like the WS Silent Linear, enabling them to type for extended periods without fatigue, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Box Mute Jade with its heavier actuation and bottom out force. This provides a stronger push feel while typing.
Although the actuation force and bottom out force differ between these two switches, it is worth noting that both can provide similar results in terms of creating a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference – individuals who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the WS Silent Linear, while those who enjoy a heavier touch may gravitate towards the Box Mute Jade.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the WS Silent Linear is the shorter option. Choosing the WS Silent Linear would provide a faster response time, which is favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade offers a slightly deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feeling when pressing down on the keys. It is important to consider personal preferences and individual needs when selecting between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch will depend on whether one desires a shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20.
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 crunchy sound profile that is commonly associated with clicky switches. It produces a sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offers a more muted and subdued sound. It is described as producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, offering a more subtle sound signature. While the WS Silent Linear may not be completely silent, it does minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch provides an accented feel. This means that it offers a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, providing a prominent amount of tactility. Additionally, it has a stiff feel, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. The switch is also polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish that ensures a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience. It offers a more approachable feel for most users, as its qualities fall in a safe middle-ground zone. While specific information about the switch's feel is unknown, it can be expected to provide a relatively smooth and comfortable typing experience.
Overall, if you prefer a clicky switch with a crunchy sound profile, accompanied by an accented feel and a stiffer typing experience, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you desire a quieter typing experience with a more muted sound profile, along with a mild and gentle feel, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch would be a better option. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences and needs. If you enjoy the tactile feedback and the distinct click sound associated with clicky switches, but prefer a more subdued and quieter sound profile, then the Box Mute Jade is the perfect switch for you. It offers a slightly heavier bottom out force of 82 grams and features a crunchy feel. On the other hand, if you prioritize a tranquil and precise typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque Studio is an excellent choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a mild typing experience and has ingeniously designed stem railings to reduce switch noise. It is worth noting that the WS Silent Linear switch does not use silicone dampeners, resulting in a unique typing experience devoid of cushioned sensation. Overall, both switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, allowing you to tailor your mechanical keyboard to your preferences and environment.
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