Kailh Box White vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Kailh Box White and Kailh Plum, two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer different experiences for discerning keyboard enthusiasts. The Box White is a clicky switch that delivers maximum audio feedback, with a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and pronounced tactility. Categorized as resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy, it provides a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum is a tactile switch that surprises with its unique characteristics. Despite its heftiness, it does not feature a prominent tactile bump, defying the usual correlation between weightiness and tactility. The Plum offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile, categorized as neutral, mild, and stepped. These general descriptions provide an initial understanding of the switches, but let's explore further to help you decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and Kailh Plum switches both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Aesthetically, both switches have a similar look due to the clear nature of polycarbonate. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and lighting effects when comparing the top housing of the Kailh Box White and the Kailh Plum.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Box White and Plum switches utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's relatively softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housings of both switches. The nylon bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning it affects the sound produced when the key is fully pressed down.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the Box White and Plum switches, the qualities each housing material brings to the switch are split between the top and bottom. When pressing down on either switch, the user will feel the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the properties of the top housing. Therefore, although the Kailh Box White and Kailh Plum switches have different housing materials for their top and bottom, the overall sound experience can still be similar due to the way these materials contribute to the different phases of key actuation.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the exact actuation force for the Plum is unknown. However, both switches can provide similar results in terms of actuation force if a lighter touch is desired.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box White has a force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Plum requires a heavier force to bottom out, with a weight of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. This difference in bottom out force can provide a different typing experience, with the Plum switch offering a more substantial and firm press compared to the Box White.
Considering weight is important when selecting a switch, as it can greatly impact typing or gaming sessions. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer periods of typing or gaming might find the Box White switch more suitable. It allows for extended use without causing excessive fatigue. On the contrary, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel to enhance the typing experience may prefer switches with heavier forces, such as the Plum switch.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and Kailh Plum tactile switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Box White has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Plum's actuation force is unknown and its bottom out force is medium-heavy, weighing in at 70 grams. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile feedback and keypress experience in terms of the distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Box White or the Plum switch, you can expect a consistent and comfortable keypress feel with a travel distance of 3.6 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched qualities. Typing on these switches will result in a clean and sharp sound profile, almost like stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a more neutral sound profile that is enjoyable and not too distinct. It doesn't have the same crispness or high pitch as the Box White switch, but it provides a pleasing audio experience overall. It's worth noting that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience. These switches have reduced friction and provide smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch offers a mild typing experience, making it more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls in a safe middle ground, appealing to a wide range of users. Additionally, the Plum switch can be considered a stepped switch, meaning it has a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White switch excels in its resonant, high-pitched sound profile and polished feel, providing a distinct audio feedback and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch offers a unique combination of weightiness without a huge tactile bump, resulting in a pleasant and approachable sound and feel. While they have some differences, both switches offer their own strengths and can deliver satisfying results depending on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who desires maximum audio feedback and enjoys a crisp and sharp sound profile, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches provide a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and offer a pronounced tactility while typing. They have a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a unique tactile switch that feels hefty but doesn't feature a huge tactile bump, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be more suitable for you. These switches have a slightly higher bottom out force of 70 grams, making them medium-heavy. The Plum switches provide a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable and can be used for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box White and the Kailh Plum switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize maximum audio feedback and a sharper sound profile, go for the Box White. However, if you prefer a more unique tactile experience without an overwhelming tactile bump, the Plum switches are the way to go. Consider the sound profile, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision, as they play key roles in determining your typing experience.
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