Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Zuoce Bubblegum
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Zuoce Bubblegum. 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 tactile feedback without the loud clicking noise. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum is a linear switch known for its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, appealing to keyboard enthusiasts looking for a unique and innovative switch. While the Box Mute Jade is accented, crunchy, stiff, and polished, the Zuoce Bubblegum is characterized as clacky and bouncy. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM+SL
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Zuoce Bubblegum, it is evident that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in housing materials creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile in the Box Mute Jade, while the POM top housing of the Bubblegum produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box Mute Jade is more likely to be used in switches featuring RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic element to the overall design.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, both switches share the same nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches means that they will likely produce a similar sound and feel when pressed down, emphasizing the qualities of the nylon material in the typing experience.
Overall, the differences in the top housing materials between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Zuoce Bubblegum offer contrasting sound profiles, with the polycarbonate top housing of the former providing a sharper sound compared to the deeper and more muted sound of the POM top housing of the latter. However, the shared nylon bottom housing material ensures a consistent and familiar typing experience with both switches, highlighting the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon. Whether you prefer a crisper sound or a softer, more muted sound, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, it is evident that the Box Mute Jade is heavier, with an actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, whereas the Bubblegum is lighter, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The Box Mute Jade provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Bubblegum offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches have their own advantages based on personal preferences, with the Box Mute Jade catering to users who prefer heavier switches and the Bubblegum appealing to those who favor lighter switches. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and feel of a switch, and users should choose based on their individual preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While the difference may seem small, it can affect the overall typing experience. The Box Mute Jade offers a slightly deeper press, making it more suitable for those who prefer a bit more depth when typing. On the other hand, the Bubblegum switch provides a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorite among gamers looking for fast-paced gameplay. So, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Bubblegum switch is the way to go. However, if you enjoy a more substantial keypress, the Box Mute Jade switch may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience, so it comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Bubblegum has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bubblegum for $2.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a unique crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, while the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch provides a sharp and snappy clacky sound that is crisp and percussive. Both switches have distinct auditory profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Jade switch offering a more subdued click and the Bubblegum switch delivering a satisfyingly clacky typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade switch provides an accented tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, coupled with a stiff actuation requiring more force to press compared to other switches. Additionally, the polished finish of the Jade switch results in smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch offers a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback, providing a lively feel and rebound when pressed.
Considering all available information, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch offer unique and contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a more tactile switch with a subdued click and a crunchy sound, the Box Mute Jade is the way to go. However, if you are seeking a linear switch with a satisfyingly clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum is a great choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier key press with a subtle click sound and a tactile bump, the Box Mute Jade may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter key press with a snappy, clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the Bubblegum switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and the overall experience you're looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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