Huano Acacia vs. Kailh Box White V2
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the Kailh Box White V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Acacia and the Kailh Box White V2 present two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Huano Acacia, a linear switch, is celebrated for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, offering a smooth and seamless typing experience straight out of the box. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quiet, uninterrupted keystroke, perfect for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White V2 is a clicky switch, renowned for its crisp tactile feedback and audible click sound, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying response with every keystroke. This switch can enhance the typing experience for those who thrive on auditory cues, adding a layer of engagement to their work or gaming sessions. While both switches have their unique strengths, one being smooth and understated while the other is tactile and pronounced, each caters to different typing styles and preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Huano Acacia and the Kailh Box White V2 utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which greatly influences their sound characteristics. The use of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making both switches well-suited for users who seek precise auditory feedback when typing. The rigidity of this material allows sound waves to resonate clearly and travel without distortion. Moreover, the translucence of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who utilize RGB lighting, as it enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches by allowing light to shine through, creating a vibrant, illuminated effect. Thus, in terms of top housing quality, both switches share similar acoustic advantages and visual traits.
In contrast, the bottom housings of these two switches are both made from nylon, a material traditionally favored for its sound-absorbing qualities. The softer, more pliable nature of nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, absorbing some of the vibrations that might otherwise travel through harder materials. This attribute helps to create a rounder and more muted sound, contributing to a distinct typing experience. Given that both the Acacia and the Box White V2 utilize nylon in their bottom housings, users can expect this deeper, fuller sound regardless of the switch choice, as both will exhibit similar acoustic behaviors on the lower end of the frequency spectrum.
Ultimately, when comparing the Huano Acacia and the Kailh Box White V2, it is evident that both switches leverage the properties of polycarbonate and nylon to produce a specific acoustic profile. The combination of a crisp top housing and a softer bottom housing allows for a unique blend of sounds—a sharpness in the initial keystroke followed by a rounder retraction sound. While the sound characteristics and tactile feedback of each switch will be influenced by factors such as the keystroke design and spring mechanism, the shared use of polycarbonate and nylon ensures that they maintain both clarity and warmth in sound, offering an appealing balance for typing enthusiasts.
Weight
The Huano Acacia linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch both exhibit an actuation force of 45 grams, making them comparable in terms of the initial effort required to register a keystroke. This similarity means that users can expect a similar typing experience regarding how easily the keys are activated. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Acacia switch has a slightly heavier requirement at 55 grams compared to the 50 grams of the Box White V2. This difference indicates that while both switches are relatively light in actuation, the Box White V2 may offer a more comfortable experience for those who favor lighter options, while the Acacia provides a bit of extra heft during bottoming out for users who appreciate a more substantial feel. Consequently, the Acacia switch is overall heavier, contrasting with the lighter Kailh Box White V2, catering to different preferences based on typing style and usage.
Travel distance
The Huano Acacia linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch exhibit slightly different travel distances, with the Acacia measuring 3.5 mm and the Box White V2 at 3.6 mm. This makes the Acacia switch the shorter of the two, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers who favor quicker key presses. In contrast, the Box White V2, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. While both switches are close in travel distance, the preference ultimately depends on individual user experience: the shorter Acacia may feel less abrupt and more agile, while the longer Box White V2 may deliver a more traditional typing experience. Thus, your choice between the two switches could hinge on whether you value speed or depth in your key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 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 Huano Acacia linear switch is characterized by its smooth operation without any tactile feedback or click, resulting in a quiet typing experience that can be preferable in office environments or shared spaces. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 switch produces a distinct and sharp click with every keystroke, making it ideal for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. This clicky sound adds an element of satisfaction to typing but can be more disruptive in quieter settings. It's also worth noting that the sound produced by each switch can be influenced by the keyboard's design and the choice of keycaps, which can alter the overall acoustic profile.
Regarding feel, the Acacia switch boasts a medium-light actuation force which, combined with generous factory lubrication, allows for a smooth and pleasant typing experience with minimal stem wobble. This makes it well-suited for those who value a fluid keypress with a soft landing. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a firm tactile bump that provides clear feedback when a key is activated, appealing to typists who enjoy the reassurance of knowing their keystrokes have registered. The pronounced tactile feedback also contributes to a more engaging typing experience, although it may be less suited for those who prefer a softer touch.
In conclusion, while the Huano Acacia linear switch excels with its quiet, fluid operation that suits a variety of environments, the Kailh Box White V2 shines with its distinct click and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy auditory and haptic responsiveness. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can find an option that best meets their needs. Ultimately, personal preference will dictate the choice between these switches, as both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a balanced typing experience that combines a smooth, linear feel with a medium-light actuation force, you'll likely appreciate the Acacia switch. Its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble ensure a comfortable and satisfying experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming where you want fluidity without distraction. On the other hand, if you seek an engaging tactile experience that provides auditory feedback, the Box White V2 might be your better option. With its lighter actuation force and distinct click sound, it enhances both the tactile and audible sensations, perfect for those who enjoy a more interactive feel while typing or gaming. Therefore, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize smoothness and comfort with the Acacia or responsiveness and clicky feedback with the Box White V2. Assess your own typing habits and preferences, and you'll find the switch that best suits your needs.
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