Kailh Box Royal vs. HMX Jelly
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Jelly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Jelly offer two distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Box Royal is renowned for its aggressive tactile feedback, providing a sharp and binary tactility that many typists and gamers crave for precision and responsiveness. With a high-pitched sound profile, it delivers an auditory cue that complements its tactile nature, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Jelly embraces a smoother operation with its low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature. Weighing in at a lightweight 42g actuation force, these linear switches glide effortlessly under the fingers due to their exceptional factory lubrication, perfect for users who favor a quieter, more fluid keystroke without the interruptions of tactility. Both switches have their unique appeal, depending on whether you're after a sharp, tactile response or a smooth, quiet feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and HMX Jelly switches both feature a nylon housing, making them closely aligned in terms of material choice. The nylon used for both the top and bottom housings is a classic choice in the world of mechanical switches, known for its ability to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is largely due to the softness of nylon as a plastic, which allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, both switches are expected to produce a duller and rounder auditory experience, which many typists and gamers might prefer for its comfort and reduced noise.
When examining the impact of housing materials on user experience, it’s important to note that both the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Jelly switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This consistency across the housing material suggests that users will experience similar acoustic properties regardless of the switch they choose. The nylon’s sound-absorbing qualities will ensure that the bottom-out sound—a critical factor for many typists—will be somewhat muted and pleasant. Additionally, since the top housing is also nylon, the release sound when letting go of a key will reinforce this deeper sound profile, providing a cohesive auditory feedback loop for users.
In summary, the direct comparison between the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Jelly reveals significant commonalities due to the exclusive use of nylon in both switches. This results in similar performance outcomes in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. With both top and bottom housings made from the same material, users can expect a consistent typing experience across both switch types, characterized by the comforting, muted sounds that many enthusiasts find appealing. Thus, potential switch users can confidently choose between the two based on other aesthetic or performance preferences, knowing that their auditory experiences will be largely identical.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, we find noteworthy differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Royal requires an actuation force of 45 grams and bottoms out at 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Jelly features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of just 48 grams. This lighter feel is ideal for users who type or game for extended periods, providing an easier and more comfortable keystroke. As such, while both switches offer unique experiences, the Box Royal's heavier weight will cater more specifically to users looking for a firmer push, while the Jelly's lighter force is better suited for those desiring ease and comfort over longer use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, there's a noticeable difference that could influence your choice depending on your preferences. The Box Royal features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jelly has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Box Royal is the shorter switch, offering a more responsive feel that can be beneficial for gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the HMX Jelly, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced depth and less abrupt actuation. Therefore, choosing between these switches ultimately depends on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a more substantial tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch stands out with its high-pitched auditory profile. This sharp and crisp sound produces a distinct, almost aggressive acoustic feedback, making each keypress feel pronounced. It's an ideal choice for users who prefer a more elevated and lively sound, steering away from the earthier tones that some other switches offer. In contrast, the HMX Jelly linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature. This offers a softer auditory experience, making it pleasant for those who enjoy a more subdued sound that lacks the sharper edges. Both sound profiles cater to different user preferences—high-pitched for an energetic feel and low-pitched for a more mellow vibe—but the perceived sound can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Box Royal excels with its sharp tactile feedback. The switch's pronounced tactile bump provides high feedback intensity, allowing users to distinctly feel the actuation point with each keystroke. This makes it an excellent option for typists who appreciate clear tactile responses. The Jelly switch, being a linear type, does not have a tactile bump at all, resulting in an incredibly smooth keystroke without any interruption until bottoming out. The 42g actuation force further enhances the Jelly switch's lightweight feel, promoting effortless key presses perfect for rapid typings or gaming scenarios. The contrast between the sharp tactile sensation of the Box Royal and the smooth linear action of the Jelly gives each switch a unique character suited to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Jelly switches offer two distinctly different experiences that cater to various user preferences. The Box Royal delivers an audibly sharp and tactually intense experience that typists may find particularly satisfying, while the Jelly provides a smooth, low-pitched alternative that appeals to those who enjoy a quieter, flowing keystroke. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on whether you value a pronounced tactile feel and higher sound pitch or a smoother, softer keystroke with a relaxed auditory presence.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch hinges on your preferences for tactility, sound, and actuation force. If you crave a pronounced and sharp tactile feedback with a distinctive "bump" that you can feel with every keypress, the Box Royal would be your ideal choice, especially if you enjoy a heavier actuation force. Its higher-pitched sound profile aligns well with those who prefer a crisp, sharp auditory experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother, quieter experience with less resistance, the HMX Jelly is what you'd want. Its lightweight actuation and deep, thocky sound would suit you perfectly if you prefer a more subtle tactile response and an overall softer sound. In summary, the Box Royal is great for users who enjoy aggressive tactility and a more pronounced sound, while the Jelly is perfect for those seeking smooth linear performance with a rich, deep acoustics.
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