Gateron Aliaz vs. Kailh Box White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Kailh Box White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch. The Aliaz switches are ideal for quiet environments such as the office, as they are designed to be silent while still providing a medium-heavy weight that gives a satisfying feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Box White switches are perfect for those who prefer maximum audio feedback, with a distinctive "stepping on autumn leaves" crunchy sound and enhanced tactility. The Aliaz switches offer a more muted typing experience, while the Box White switches provide a resonant, high-pitched sound. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Kailh Box White, it is evident that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This polycarbonate material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for achieving a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for showcasing RGB lighting in the switch, adding an aesthetic appeal. This similarity in top housing material ensures that users can expect a similar sound profile and visual effect when using either switch.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Aliaz switch utilizes polycarbonate, while the Kailh Box White features a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, complementing the qualities of the top housing. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Box White results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the Aliaz offering a sharper and more resonant typing experience compared to the Box White's deeper and fuller sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches like the Gateron Aliaz and the Kailh Box White plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for similar sound characteristics and RGB compatibility, the difference in bottom housing material results in distinct typing experiences. Users looking for a sharper, crisper sound may prefer the Aliaz with its polycarbonate bottom housing, while those seeking a deeper, fuller sound may favor the Box White with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the housing materials of a switch contribute to its overall performance and user satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is the heavier option. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a more medium-weight option. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback, but the Aliaz is suited for those who prefer a heavier typing experience, while the Box White is better for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference in terms of typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance for a switch. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box White for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Aliaz. Both switches offer a decent travel distance that provides a satisfying typing experience, but the Aliaz offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a muted experience, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch. This makes it ideal for quiet environments like the office. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White clicky switch provides a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, offering a more immersive and tactile auditory experience, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The Aliaz is perfect for those who prefer a more subdued typing noise, while the Box White caters to individuals who enjoy a more pronounced and clicky sound feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This enhanced smoothness enhances the overall typing feel, making each keystroke feel refined and sleek. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White is also described as polished, providing a similar smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a premium typing experience that prioritizes smoothness and comfort while typing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz excels in providing a muted and subtle typing experience ideal for quiet environments, while the Box White delivers a resonant and clicky sound feedback for a more immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer a silky and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether you prefer a quiet typing experience with a subtle feel or a more audibly engaging experience with pronounced tactility, both switches will provide a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, you should choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch if you are looking for a quiet typing experience with a medium-heavy key feel, perfect for office environments or those who prefer a more pronounced feedback without the noise. On the other hand, opt for the Kailh Box White clicky switch if you desire maximum audio feedback with a crisp and sharp sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves when typing. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a silent and substantial typing experience (Aliaz) or a loud and tactile auditory experience (Box White). Make your decision based on your personal preferences and environment.
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