Kailh Box Royal vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Hibiscus offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Box Royal is renowned for its bold tactile feedback, providing a sharp and binary tactility that appeals to those who enjoy a more aggressive typing experience. Accompanied by a higher-pitched sound profile, these switches are perfect for users who thrive on the pronounced sensation of each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, boasting an ultra-light actuation force that underlies an effortless feel. These linear switches stand out for their satisfyingly clacky, poppy sound signature, making them ideal for users who prefer a quieter yet delightful auditory experience. While both switches have their unique advantages—whether it’s the tactile sharpness of the Box Royal or the buttery smoothness of the Hibiscus—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
42g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Hibiscus, it is important to note that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality significantly influences the auditory experience when typing. Both switches are crafted from nylon, a material known for its sound-dampening properties, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is both duller and rounder. This shared characteristic means that users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either switch, as both will produce comparable sound profiles.
Another aspect to consider is the impact of the nylon housing on the tactile experience of each switch. Since both the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Hibiscus feature nylon in their construction, they will exhibit similar tactile feedback when pressed. Given that the bottom housing generally contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, the nylon material will enhance this sensation in both switches. The softer nature of nylon provides a cushioning effect upon actuation, potentially resulting in a satisfying typing experience. Therefore, users can anticipate a comparable feel under the fingertips when interacting with either switch.
However, the differences in design or other internal components might still differentiate the overall typing experience despite the shared nylon housing. While the material characteristics have many similarities, the switches might still exhibit unique profiles in actuation force, travel distance, or intentional sound tuning that could affect user preference. Despite these potential variances, the consistent use of nylon in both top and bottom housings ensures that the core auditory and tactile experiences will be fundamentally alike, giving a reliable foundation for users seeking a particular sound profile and feel in their typing experience.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch present different characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, reflecting their respective design philosophies. The Box Royal features a medium-heavy actuation force of 45 grams, while the Hibiscus is lighter at 42 grams. This difference in actuation force suggests that typists may find the Box Royal to provide a more substantial feedback experience, which some users prefer for intense typing sessions or gaming. When it comes to bottom out forces, the Box Royal has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the Hibiscus's 48 grams. This means that those who appreciate a firmer bottoming out sensation will favor the Box Royal. In contrast, the Hibiscus's lighter forces may allow for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference for resistance versus comfort during extended usage.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Hibiscus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This distinction suggests that the Box Royal may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback due to its greater depth, which could appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. On the other hand, the Hibiscus, with its shorter travel distance, may cater to those who prioritize quicker response times, such as gamers looking for a competitive edge. Both switches are relatively close in travel distance, falling within a range that aligns with contemporary preferences for shorter actuation, but the Box Royal ultimately offers a marginally longer travel, resulting in a deeper feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch stands out with its high-pitched tone, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory feedback when pressed. This type of sound can be particularly appealing for those who prefer a more pronounced audio response from their keyboard, steering clear of deeper, bass-heavy tones. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which adds a delightful auditory aspect to the typing experience. While both switches provide interesting sound profiles, the Box Royal leans toward a sharper higher pitch, whereas the Hibiscus emphasizes a more lively and engaging sound, distinct in its own right. It's also important to keep in mind that the overall sound can be influenced by the keyboard's design and the choice of keycaps, meaning their acoustic performances might vary in actual use.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch is renowned for its sharp tactile feedback. Users will notice a pronounced tactile bump that is both strong and crisp, ensuring that each keystroke is distinct and clearly felt. This pronounced tactility can be perfect for typists who crave high feedback intensity and want an engaging typing experience. The HMX Hibiscus, on the other hand, is celebrated for its ultra-smooth operation, without providing any tactile bump at all since it is a linear switch. This smoothness contributes to a seamless transition between key presses, making it ideal for those who prefer fluid and uninterrupted motion while typing. Thus, while the Box Royal delivers a sharp tactile response, the Hibiscus focuses on smooth and effortless keystrokes, yielding very different feelings for the user.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Hibiscus switches provide unique perceptions through their sound and feel. The Box Royal excels with its sharp, high-pitched sound and prominent tactile feedback, while the Hibiscus offers a lively acoustic signature and an ultra-smooth typing experience without tactility. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize pronounced tactile sensations or a silky, seamless typing experience. Each switch provides distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you can find the right fit for your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch should be guided by your typing style and preferences in feedback. If you value a pronounced and aggressive tactile response, with a sharp, crisp feedback profile that offers a sensation of assertiveness with every keystroke, then the Box Royal is the ideal switch for you. Its heavier actuation force of 70 grams ensures that you feel each press distinctly, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more engaged typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch that allows for a smoother, effortless typing experience, the HMX Hibiscus is your go-to choice. With a lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams, the Hibiscus offers an ultra-smooth action combined with a satisfying, clacky sound signature, making it perfect for gamers or typists who favor speed and fluidity. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize tactile feedback and deeper engagement or a softer, more fluid typing rhythm.
Mentioned in this article
