Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that are worth considering are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a unique combination of a crunchy feel and a more subdued sound profile. With a slight bump and a quieter, yet unmistakably clicky, sound signature, this switch is perfect for those who appreciate the tactile feedback of a clicky switch but prefer a less noisy typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow is a linear switch that combines classic materials with cutting-edge engineering. Featuring a 22mm double-stage spring at its core, these switches provide a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. Additionally, the WS Yellow's material blend ensures a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts have come to love. Crafted to be lightweight, these switches offer effortless keystrokes and ensure a smooth and fluid typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision and choose the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
53g
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 housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches differ in terms of their impact on the sound profile. The Box Mute Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Yellow has a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Box Mute Jade is ideal for those who prefer a sharper and more distinct sound, while the WS Yellow is suitable for individuals seeking a deeper and fuller typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Box Mute Jade and the WS Yellow have nylon bottom housings. This material choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material ensures that both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. If you enjoy the deep and full sound that comes with the nylon bottom housing, both the Box Mute Jade and the WS Yellow will deliver comparable results.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on which part of the switch is being pressed. When you press down on the switch, you will feel the qualities of the bottom housing, as it has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, when you release a key, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced. Therefore, the choice of housing material for the top and bottom of a switch can greatly influence the overall sound experience. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, understanding the role of housing materials is key in selecting the right switch for your typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences. The Box Mute Jade requires a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, while the WS Yellow's actuation force is currently unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade is again heavier with a force of 82 grams, while the WS Yellow has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it can greatly impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, allowing for less strain on the fingers. The WS Yellow with its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams could be well-suited for individuals who prioritize lighter switches.
On the other hand, some users prefer a more substantial typing experience and prefer switches with heavier forces. The Kailh Box Mute Jade, with its actuation force of 75 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, would cater to those seeking a stronger push feel for a more robust typing experience.
Although the specific actuation force of the WS Yellow switch is currently unknown, it is clear that it offers a lighter bottom out force compared to the Box Mute Jade. Both options can provide satisfying keystrokes for their respective preferences, but individuals seeking a lighter switch may find the WS Yellow more suitable, while those desiring a heavier switch might prefer the Box Mute Jade.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Box Mute Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are becoming more popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance as it allows for faster response times. The shorter option provides a more responsive feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance. For those who appreciate a deeper feel, the switch with the longer travel distance would be the better choice. Nonetheless, both switches offer similar results and can cater to different preferences and needs.
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 Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches are best described as having a crunchy sound profile. This is typically associated with clicky switches and is compared to the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, there is no specific information provided about the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches. 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 used. Therefore, the WS Yellow switches may provide a similar clicky sound experience, but it cannot be guaranteed based on the available information.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches are described as accented, stiff, and polished. Accented switches refer to a medium tactile switch that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The stiffness of these switches requires more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, offering a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches are described as creamy, mild, and polished. Creamy switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience, often due to factory lubrication or specific materials. Mild switches offer a more gentle typing experience with qualities that stand in a safe middle-ground zone. Like the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches, the WS Yellow switches also feature a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches have subjective qualities that differentiate them in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade switches provide a crunchy sound and an accented, stiff, and polished feel. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switches offer a creamy sound and a mild and polished feel. While there is no specific information on the sound of the WS Yellow switches, it is possible that they may offer a clicky sound similar to the Box Mute Jade switches. Both switches feature a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're someone who appreciates the crunchy feel of a clicky switch but prefers a quieter sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 82 grams, these switches provide a heavy and satisfying typing experience. The slight bump and quieter clicky sound signature make them ideal for those who enjoy the tactile feedback without the loud noise associated with traditional clicky switches.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a smooth and fluid typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch would be a great fit. These switches have a bottom out force of 53 grams, offering a medium-light feel. With a 22mm double-stage spring at their core, they provide a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. The lightweight nature of these switches ensures effortless keystrokes, making them perfect for those who prefer a more gentle and approachable typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch is best described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The WS Yellow linear switch, on the other hand, doesn't have a specific sound descriptor mentioned, but it offers a sound signature that enthusiasts have come to adore, thanks to its material blend.
When it comes to feel, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch is characterized as accented, stiff, and polished. This means you can expect a medium tactile experience with a prominent amount of tactility, requiring more force to actuate and bottom out. Additionally, the polished finish provides a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switch is described as creamy, mild, and polished. This indicates a smooth and buttery typing experience with a safe, middle-ground feel that is approachable for most typists.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you value a quieter but still clicky switch with a heavier feel, go for the Box Mute Jade. If you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience with a slightly lighter touch, the WS Yellow is the way to go. Consider your desired sound, feel, and typing experience to make an informed decision.
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