Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stand out for their unique features and capabilities. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience without being too loud. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is a linear switch from Gateron that boasts a revolutionary self-padding design and dual-rail structure for smoother and more stable typing, along with a soft and elastic feel that absorbs sound and minimizes noise. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and advantages, catering to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetics of the keyboard. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual appeal from both switches due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
In contrast, the housing materials differ in the bottom housing of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches. The Box Mute Jade features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The choice of housing material for the bottom part of the switch can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the keyboard, adding a unique characteristic to each switch.
Overall, while both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, the difference in bottom housing material between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° contributes to distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Box Mute Jade's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0°'s housing materials result in a different auditory and tactile feedback, catering to users who prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on their keyboard.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch reveals some significant differences. The Box Mute Jade switch has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams compared to the lighter 45 grams required for the Zero Degree 0° switch. This means that the Box Mute Jade switch will provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade switch also has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, while the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° switch is unknown. The heavier bottom out force of the Box Mute Jade switch may be preferred by some users for a more satisfying typing experience. Overall, the Box Mute Jade switch offers a heavier typing experience in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key feel and actuation regardless of which switch they choose. Both switches offer a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between being too short and too long, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a tactile clicky switch or a smooth linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
The Kailh Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 clicky switch offers a crunchy and subdued sound profile that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Box Mute Jade switch provides an accented tactile feedback that is not overly pronounced, a stiff actuation requiring more force, and a polished finish for smooth key travel. These qualities combine to offer a satisfying typing experience. As for the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, information on its tactile feel is not available at this time.
Considering the available information, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch excels in providing a unique tactile experience with its crunchy sound and a satisfying amount of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on delivering a smooth and stable typing experience with reduced noise. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. For those seeking a quieter but still clicky typing experience, the Box Mute Jade may be preferable. If a smooth and silent typing experience is desired, the Zero Degree 0° could be the ideal choice. Remember that the perfect switch for you will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should keep in mind the key features of each. If you prefer a heavier switch with a distinct clicky sound but want a more subdued noise level, the Box Mute Jade is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, stable, and silent typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° linear switch may be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for key feel, sound profile, and typing experience. Make sure to consider these factors before selecting the mechanical keyboard switch that best suits your needs.
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