Kailh Box White V2 vs. HMX Deep Navy
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Deep Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between a clicky option like the Kailh Box White V2 and a linear switch such as the HMX Deep Navy can significantly impact your typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 switches are celebrated for their distinctly crisp tactile feedback and audible click, making them ideal for typists who appreciate a clear auditory confirmation with every keystroke—perfect for those who enjoy the nostalgia of old-fashioned typewriters. On the other hand, the HMX Deep Navy switches deliver a smooth, linear experience thanks to their full nylon construction and specially designed Ly stem, which ensures a buttery-smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or click, appealing to gamers and those who prefer a fluid motion while typing. Each switch offers unique advantages: while the Box White V2 provides engaging feedback for a more interactive experience, the Deep Navy excels in delivering uninterrupted flow for fast-paced typing or gaming. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Deep Navy switches showcase distinct characteristics in their construction materials, particularly concerning their top housings. The Box White V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucence. This composition contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile, ideal for users who appreciate a crisper auditory feedback when typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate's clear nature enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a visually appealing option for those who prioritize aesthetics alongside functionality. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy employs a nylon top housing, which is a softer plastic that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material choice tends to absorb sound rather than project it, leading to a more muted acoustic response, suitable for users looking for a rounder typing experience.
When exploring the bottom housing of each switch, there is an interesting alignment in material choice. Both the Box White V2 and the HMX Deep Navy feature a nylon bottom housing. This commonality means that regardless of their differing top materials, both switches benefit from the sound-dampening properties that nylon provides in the bottom housing. This leads to a satisfying, deeper bottom-out sound that users can expect from both switches. Consequently, while the top housings may drastically influence the sound and feel when releasing a key—creating a more pronounced difference between the two switches—the bottom housings create a shared auditory baseline that enhances the overall typing experience for users.
By combining the unique attributes of both top and bottom housings, the experience of each switch is nuanced. The Kailh Box White V2 offers users a bright and high-pitched sound when releasing a key due to its polycarbonate top, while the nylon bottom contributes to a full sensation upon bottoming out. Conversely, the HMX Deep Navy delivers a more balanced auditory profile due to its nylon top, rounded out by its equally nylon-infused bottom housing. Thus, while the differences in top housing materials lead to contrasting experiences when engaging with the switches, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches ultimately deliver a robust and satisfying feel across the board.
Weight
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch both feature lightweight specifications, making them accessible for various typing preferences. The Box White V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Deep Navy boasts a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Deep Navy is the lighter of the two, requiring less force to actuate and bottom out. Users who prefer a lighter switch, like the Deep Navy, may find it easier to type for extended periods without fatigue, making it ideal for long work or gaming sessions. Conversely, some may appreciate the slightly heavier feel of the Box White V2, which provides a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches offer a light touch, the Deep Navy stands out as the lighter option, allowing for a quicker and more responsive feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch both feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they will provide a similar experience in terms of keypress depth. This equality in travel distance means that users can expect a comparable tactile response and feel when engaging either switch. Therefore, those looking for consistent key travel will find both switches equally satisfying in this regard, making them suitable choices depending on the desired switch type—clicky versus linear—without any differences in the keypress distance itself.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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 Kailh Box White V2 switch is renowned for its crisp auditory feedback, producing a pronounced click that provides an engaging and noticeably loud sound upon actuation. This distinct audio signature is likely to draw attention, making it an ideal choice for typists and gamers who enjoy an expressive typing experience. Conversely, the HMX Deep Navy switch offers a rich, sharp sound profile, thanks to its full nylon construction. The result is a smooth, restrained sound that is more subdued than the Box White V2, catering to users who prefer a quieter environment while still enjoying an enhanced auditory experience. However, it’s important to note that the sound of these switches can be influenced by the choice of keyboard body and keycaps employed, meaning that environmental factors may alter the final auditory experience.
When considering the feel, the Kailh Box White V2 provides a tactile sensation that is both fulfilling and engaging, offering a distinct bump at the actuation point. This tactile feedback allows typists to enjoy a more interactive experience as they type, making each keystroke feel intentional. On the other hand, the HMX Deep Navy switch stands out for its silky smoothness, courtesy of its Ly stem, resulting in a linear switch that glides effortlessly with no tactile bump. For users looking for a consistent actuation without any interruptions, the Deep Navy switch excels, while the Box White V2 caters to those who appreciate the tactile engagement in their typing.
In conclusion, the comparative qualities of the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Deep Navy switches present unique experiences tailored to distinct preferences. The Box White V2's pronounced click and tactile feedback offer a lively sound and feel, emphasizing engagement in every keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy boasts a smooth action paired with a refined sound profile, ideal for those who favor a quieter yet satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your choice boils down to whether you value the crisp, tactile engagement of the Box White V2 or the smoothness and muted acoustics of the Deep Navy. Each switch shines in its own right, allowing users to select one that matches their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Deep Navy switches, consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you enjoy a clicky feedback and the satisfaction of an audible sound with each key press, the Kailh Box White V2 is the ideal choice for you. Its tactile feedback is particularly engaging for typists who appreciate a more interactive experience while writing or gaming. The Box White V2's lighter bottom out force of 50 grams also complements fast-paced typing, making it a great option for those who type with speed and precision. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience, the HMX Deep Navy switch with its linear design could be the perfect fit. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches provide a serene and fluid keystroke without the distraction of clicks, which can be advantageous in quieter environments or during intense gaming sessions where focus is paramount. Additionally, the Deep Navy's nylon construction results in an elegant feel that many users find satisfying over extended periods. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you lean towards the tactile and auditory engagement of the Box White V2 or the silky smooth experience offered by the Deep Navy switches.
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