Kailh Box Royal vs. HMX SU

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX SU offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Box Royal switches are celebrated for their sharp, binary tactility, providing a pronounced feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying, especially if they enjoy a more aggressive tactile sensation. The higher pitched sound profile of the Box Royals adds an auditory crispness that can enhance the typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX SU switches present a smooth, linear action thanks to their full PA12 housing and T5 stem, delivering a subtle yet deep sound profile that appeals to users who prefer a quieter, uninterrupted keystroke. While the Box Royals are ideal for those who crave pronounced feedback, the HMX SUs cater to users who appreciate a more fluid typing experience without any tactility. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

HMX SU Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX SU feature top and bottom housings made from nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its acoustic properties. The choice of nylon in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which enhances the typing experience. This is due to nylon's relatively softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory feedback when typing. This similarity in the material used for both switch types suggests that users can anticipate comparable sound profiles when using either switch, providing a satisfying and muted typing experience.

In addition to sound absorption qualities, the nylon housing in both the Box Royal and HMX SU offers durability and a smooth typing feel. Since both switches utilize nylon for the top and bottom housings, they exhibit similar tactile characteristics that can affect the overall typing experience. As users press down on the keys, they will appreciate the consistent feedback provided by the nylon construction, which enhances the sensation of each keystroke. This uniformity in material across both layers of the switch helps maintain an overall cohesive feel, which can be particularly appealing to typists who prefer predictability in their keyboard switches.

However, while the materials are the same, the design elements and internal components of the Kailh Box Royal and HMX SU may lead to distinct performance characteristics, such as actuation force or travel distance. Should these design features differ, the sound and feel of bottoming out may be influenced, resulting in unique experiences despite the nylon construction. It is essential for users to consider not only material similarities but also the specific design nuances to choose a switch that best fits their preferences. Therefore, while the use of nylon in both switches ensures similar sound profiles and typing sensations, individual characteristics may still create varied dynamics during use.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in their bottom out forces despite sharing the same actuation force. Both switches require an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive for typing and gaming tasks. However, the bottom out force differs significantly: the Box Royal has a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while the HMX SU features a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This distinction means that while both switches have the same initial feel when a key is pressed, the Box Royal will provide a more substantial typing experience thanks to its heavier bottom out, which may appeal to those seeking more resistance. In contrast, the lighter bottom out of the HMX SU makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, allowing for less strain over extended use. Therefore, users seeking a heavier, more tactile feel might lean towards the Kailh Box Royal, while those who prefer lighter switches for comfort should opt for the HMX SU.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they require the same amount of keypress to register input. Since both switches have an identical travel distance, users can expect similar feedback and response when typing or gaming, which can be particularly beneficial for those seeking a consistent experience across different key switches. As a result, whether one uses the Kailh Box Royal or the HMX SU, the tactile engagement will feel the same, contributing to user comfort and efficiency.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch offers a high-pitched auditory experience that results in a sharp and crisp sound upon actuation. This makes it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who prefer a more pronounced and articulate sound, as opposed to the richer and bassier tones found in other switch types. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch is characterized by a subtle and deeper sound profile, which may appeal to those who desire a more understated auditory feedback. However, it's important to note that the overall sound quality can be influenced by the keyboard build and keycaps used, making it essential to consider these factors when selecting a switch.

In terms of feel, the Box Royal is notable for its sharp, crisp tactile feedback. The strong, binary tactility provides an intense sensory response with each keystroke, making it ideal for users who thrive on a clear and distinct tactile sensation. In comparison, the HMX SU linear switch does not possess tactile feedback as it is a linear switch, resulting in a smooth keypress from top to bottom without any tactile bump. This difference caters to a different typing experience; while the Box Royals deliver a pronounced tactile ride, the SU switches focus on a seamless progression that linear switch enthusiasts often appreciate.

In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and HMX SU switches cater to distinct preferences in both sound and feel. The Box Royal excels with its high-pitched sound and sharp tactile feedback, ideal for users who enjoy a pronounced typing experience. Meanwhile, the HMX SU offers a deep, subtle sound profile and the smooth keypress characteristic of linear switches. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize tactile responsiveness and sound sharpness, or a more understated auditory and tactile experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use cases. If you favor a more tactile typing experience and enjoy the pronounced feedback of a sharp, binary tactility, the Box Royal is an excellent option. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams provides a solid feel that can enhance your typing rhythm, making it ideal for writers or gamers who want to experience a more aggressive tactile response. Conversely, if you lean towards a smoother, quieter experience with less force needed to press down the keys, the HMX SU linear switch is likely the better choice for you. With its lighter 50-gram bottom-out force and wonderfully subtle sound profile, this switch promotes faster key presses that can be more suited for fast-paced gaming or extended typing sessions where comfort is paramount. Ultimately, aligning your switch choice with your typing style and sound preferences will ensure that your mechanical keyboard experience is enjoyable and productive.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more