Kailh Box Royal vs. Everglide Crystal Violet
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and Everglide Crystal Violet are two options that stand out amongst the rest. The Box Royal is renowned for its unparalleled tactility, with a sharp and binary feel that is perfect for those seeking an aggressive typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet offers a more relaxed and stepped tactile feel, providing a gentle and comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the two switches have contrasting sound profiles, with the Box Royal producing a relatively higher-pitched sound, while the Crystal Violet leans towards the lower-pitched spectrum, creating a more subtle auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches differ in terms of their top and bottom housings. The Box Royal utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Crystal Violet features an ABS top and bottom housing. The nylon top housing of the Box Royal contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is due to nylon's softness, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the ABS top housing of the Crystal Violet produces a relatively low-pitched sound when typing. ABS is less commonly used in switch housings, but its presence in keycaps is well-known for its unique sound profile.
Similarly, the bottom housing of the switches also showcases distinct characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of the Box Royal further enhances the switch's deep and full sound profile, as nylon's softness absorbs more sound, thus creating a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out. Meanwhile, the ABS bottom housing of the Crystal Violet contributes to the overall sound profile with a relatively low-pitched tone. While ABS is not commonly used in switch housings, its characteristics impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
It is important to note that when both top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom, ultimately influencing different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, as it has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are fully pressed. On the other hand, the top housing plays a vital role in the sound that is produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Everglide Crystal Violet differ, both switches offer unique sound profiles that are influenced by the materials used in their top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, there are noticeable similarities and differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical. This ensures a consistent and familiar typing experience for users who prefer this actuation force. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the two switches differ. The Box Royal has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it ideal for users who prioritize a lighter switch to type for longer periods without fatigue.
Considering the weight aspect, the Box Royal can be seen as the heavier option with its medium-heavy bottom out force, catering to individuals seeking a more robust typing sensation. This could be advantageous for those who desire a keyboard for work or engage in extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Crystal Violet offers a medium-light bottom out force, making it the lighter option. This is beneficial for users who prefer a more lightweight typing experience, allowing them to type comfortably for extended periods of time without strain or fatigue.
Overall, the actuation force remains the same for both switches, ensuring a consistent keystroke trigger. However, the difference in bottom out forces provides distinct tactile experiences catering to individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Crystal Violet has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches offer a tactile feel, the difference in their travel distances can have an impact on the typing or gaming experience. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, providing a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Box Royal's slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm may appeal to gamers who prioritize faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prefers a shorter and snappier key press or a deeper and more substantial feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
The Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25 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 Royal tactile switch produces a relatively higher pitched sound when pressed. This means that it has a sharp and crisp sound profile, which may be appealing to those who prefer a more distinct and intense auditory experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch has a pleasantly mellow sound profile that leans towards the lower-pitched spectrum. This creates a more subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a quieter and more soothing typing sound. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is known for its sharp and binary tactility. It offers a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. This intense feedback intensity may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a highly tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch offers a more relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. It has a mild tactile feedback, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving it a gentle and comfortable feel. Additionally, the Crystal Violet switch's use of specific materials or lubrication may provide a smooth and creamy typing sensation, akin to effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys.
Taking all the available information into account, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch offer distinct and contrasting qualities. The Box Royal provides an aggressively tactile feeling with a relatively high-pitched sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a sharp and intense typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet offers a more relaxed and stepped tactile experience with a mellow and lower-pitched sound profile. The choice between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and typing style. If you are looking for a similar level of tactility, the Box Royal would provide a sharper and more aggressive feel, while the Crystal Violet would offer a gentler and more mild tactile experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're someone who enjoys a highly tactile typing experience and prefers a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Kailh Box Royal switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a sharp and binary tactility, giving you a satisfying feedback intensity with each keystroke. Additionally, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile, these switches will fit your preference.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter operating force and a more relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience, the Everglide Crystal Violet switch is a great option. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches provide a gentle and comfortable feel, making typing sessions more enjoyable. The Crystal Violet switches also have a mellow, lower-pitched sound profile, creating a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize intense tactility and a higher-pitched sound profile, go for the Box Royal. If you prefer a lighter operating force and a more relaxed typing experience with a mellow sound, the Crystal Violet is the way to go. Consider your typing style and preferences when making your decision, and you'll be rewarded with a keyboard switch that enhances your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
