Kailh Box White vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box White and the Dareu Holly. The Box White is a clicky switch, known for its maximum audio feedback and distinct tactile feel that resembles stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Holly is a tactile switch with a medium 50g actuation force, offering a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements for a balanced typing experience. While the Box White provides a resonant and high-pitched sound with a crunchy feel, the Holly offers a chirpy and clacky sound with a neutral feel. Both switches have their own characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the Dareu Holly both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the differences in design and manufacturing processes may still lead to subtle variations in sound and feel between these two switches.
On the other hand, both switches have nylon bottom housings, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other housing materials. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material for their bottom housing. Despite these similarities, the design and construction of each switch may still influence the overall typing experience in unique ways.
In terms of how the housing materials affect the typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. While both the Kailh Box White and the Dareu Holly share similar housing materials, the nuances in their design and construction may still lead to subtle differences in sound and feel during typing.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equal in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, the Box White has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that it requires a slightly heavier force for a full keystroke compared to the Holly, whose bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Box White the heavier option between the two. Weight can play a significant role in user preference, with lighter switches being favored for longer typing sessions or gaming, while heavier switches provide a more substantial typing experience. In this case, those who prefer a heavier push feel may lean towards the Kailh Box White, while those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Dareu Holly more suitable.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Dareu Holly tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Box White switch offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Holly switch provides a bit more depth to the key press with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantive typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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 White clicky switch offers a resonant and high-pitched profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience akin to crunching autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch is distinguished by its chirpy and clacky elements, creating a unique sound signature that caters to users seeking a balanced typing experience. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference for sound, with the Box White leaning towards a sharper and crisper audio feedback while the Holly offers a more distinctive and balanced sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the tactile feel of the Dareu Holly switch. However, given its medium 50g actuation force, users can expect a tactile response that provides a satisfying feedback while typing.
Overall, both the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. While the Box White presents a resonant and crunchy sound profile with a polished feel, the Holly provides a chirpy and clacky sound signature with an unknown tactile feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and the typing experience they desire. Both switches have their own merits, and users can expect a satisfactory typing experience from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a satisfying clicking sound with a medium actuation force, the Kailh Box White switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its distinct crunchy sound profile and accented tactility make typing on it a unique and enjoyable experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a balance between chirpy and clacky sounds with an unknown bottom out force, the Dareu Holly tactile switch would be more suitable for you. Its combination of chirpy and clacky elements offers a distinctive typing experience that can cater to those looking for a different auditory experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of sound and typing feel.
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