Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. TTC Silent Brown

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the TTC Silent Brown. If you enjoy the satisfying crunch of a clicky switch but prefer a more subdued sound, the Box Mute Jade is the perfect choice for you. With its unmistakably clicky sound signature and slight bump, this switch provides a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the Silent Brown is an excellent option. Its muted sound profile adds to its appeal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$6.50 per 10

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Kailh Box Mute Jade and TTC Silent Brown switches share many similarities. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for a translucent housing, making it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits from both switches when it comes to their top housings.

However, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The Box Mute Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Brown also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a relatively softer plastic, absorbing more sound than harder plastics and creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a slightly different sound profile when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.

Overall, both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and TTC Silent Brown switches offer distinct advantages in terms of their housing materials. While they share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings, the difference in their nylon bottom housings contributes to variations in the sound profile. Understanding the impact of the housing materials on the switches' sound and feel can help users decide which switch aligns better with their preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Box Mute Jade is considerably heavier. The Box Mute Jade requires an actuation force of 75 grams, whereas the Silent Brown only requires 45 grams. The difference is even more pronounced when looking at the bottom out force, with the Box Mute Jade requiring 82 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 63.5 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Brown switch would be the ideal choice as it requires less force to trigger keystrokes. This lighter actuation force allows for longer periods of typing without causing significant strain or fatigue. On the other hand, users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Box Mute Jade switch. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push feel, offering a satisfying tactile feedback.

Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the intended usage. If one prefers a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Silent Brown switch would be the suitable option. However, if a user desires a more robust typing experience or requires a higher actuation force, the Box Mute Jade switch would be the better choice.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which has become more prevalent in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer switches with shorter travel distances as they offer faster response times. If you value quick responsiveness, choosing the Box Mute Jade with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer switches with more depth. In this case, selecting the TTC Silent Brown with its slightly longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one prefers a shorter or longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is best known for its crunchy feel and more subdued sound profile. When using these switches, you'll feel a slight bump and hear a quieter, though unmistakably clicky, sound signature. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Moreover, it has a muted sound profile that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.

In terms of sound, the Box Mute Jade has a crunchy sound profile, resembling the crisp and crunchy autumn leaves when pressed. On the other hand, the Silent Brown has a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Box Mute Jade is described as having an accented and stiff feel. Accented switches refer to a medium tactile switch that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The switches also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Silent Brown offers a buttery and mild typing experience. Butter switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke, while the mild characteristic ensures a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. Similar to the Box Mute Jade, the Silent Brown also features a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and TTC Silent Brown switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. If you prefer a clicky switch with a crunchy feel and a more subdued sound, the Box Mute Jade is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a muted sound and a buttery and mild feel, the Silent Brown is a suitable option. Both switches also share the characteristic of having a polished finish for smooth and refined typing experiences. Therefore, depending on your personal preferences, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with these switches.

Conclusion

In closing, if you prefer a heavy switch with a more subdued clicky sound, then the Kailh Box Mute Jade would be an excellent choice for you. Its bottom out force of 82 grams provides a satisfying level of resistance, and the slight bump coupled with a quieter click sound signature enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a comfortable typing experience with a lighter touch, the TTC Silent Brown would be a great fit. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Additionally, the Silent Brown switches provide a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your personal preferences for the sound and feel of the switches.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn more