Kailh Box White V2 vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Hibiscus can significantly impact your typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 is famed for its clicky mechanics, offering crisp tactile feedback and an audible click with every keystroke, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy the satisfying sound and feel of each press. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus boasts a linear design that prioritizes smoothness and comfort, with an ultra-light actuation force that makes it easy to type for extended periods without fatigue. The Hibiscus also provides a unique sound signature that is clacky and poppy, ensuring a dynamic auditory experience. Choosing the Box White V2 can enhance your typing with its tactile engagement, while the HMX Hibiscus caters to those who prefer a seamless and quieter typing journey. However, 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
50g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T3
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 Hibiscus offer two distinct sound profiles due to the differences in their top housing materials. The Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffer composition. This stiffer plastic allows for a sharper and crisper sound, resulting in a sound profile that emphasizes higher-pitched notes. Polycarbonate's translucency benefits RGB lighting setups, as it allows light to pass through effectively, creating an aesthetically pleasing illumination. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic material that contributes to a deeper, fuller sound. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller, rounder acoustic experience, which appeals to users looking for a more subdued typing sound.
On the other hand, both switches share an identical material for their bottom housings, both made from nylon. This similarity means that when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, they will have a deeper and fuller impact. The nylon used in the bottom housing absorbs sound effectively, enhancing the overall typing experience by muffling the noise created when the key is fully pressed down. Users of both switches can expect a similar tactile experience when bottoming out, therefore ensuring a consistent feel and sound during use, regardless of the differing characteristics of the top housings.
Ultimately, the contrasting materials lend themselves to different auditory experiences while typing. The Box White V2, with its polycarbonate top housing, offers a bright and resonant sound profile combined with the deep, full sound from its nylon bottom. Meanwhile, the Hibiscus provides a more uniformly rounded sound characteristic due to its all-nylon design. This means that if users are seeking a crisp sound with added color through RGB lighting, the Box White V2 would serve that purpose, while those preferring a softer and quieter keyboard experience might lean towards the Hibiscus. However, both switches promise a satisfying and consistent actuation feel thanks to their shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, both exhibit similar characteristics in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces, although the Hibiscus is slightly lighter. The Box White V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Hibiscus features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Hibiscus requires less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Box White V2. As a result, users who prefer a lighter feel may find the Hibiscus more appealing for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Kailh Box White V2 provides a slightly stronger push, which some may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches are considered light, but those looking for the absolute lightest option will gravitate toward the HMX Hibiscus.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, the Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Hibiscus has a slightly shorter distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Kailh Box White V2 the longer of the two switches, offering a more substantial depth for users who prefer a hearty feel when pressing down on keys. Conversely, the HMX Hibiscus, with its shorter travel distance, may provide a quicker response time, appealing to gamers and those who favor a more abrupt feedback. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more responsive experience, the Hibiscus might be the better choice, whereas the Box White V2 suits those who appreciate a deeper keystroke.
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 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.
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 switches are characterized by their crisp tactile feedback and an audible click that provides a definitive auditory cue with each keystroke. This clicky sound can be both satisfying and somewhat louder than some users may prefer, making it ideal for typists who enjoy audible confirmation of their actions. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus switches present a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which is also enjoyable but leans more towards a smoother auditory experience. The Hibiscus's sound profile, while still engaging, is likely to be less jarring than the Box White V2, appealing to those who favor a less intrusive environment while typing. However, remember that the final sound experience can vary based on the keyboard design and keycap materials used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 is renowned for its distinct tactile bump, providing a physical sensation that informs the typist of the actuation point. This switch appeals to those who prefer feedback that reinforces their keystrokes, enhancing typing accuracy and speed. Conversely, the HMX Hibiscus switch offers an ultra-light actuation force, surpassing 80% of all mechanical switches. This results in an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, allowing for quick, fluid keystrokes without the need for significant physical exertion. The Hibiscus provides a gentle tactile experience that can feel almost gliding, contrasting sharply with the more pronounced tactile feedback of the Box White V2.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Hibiscus switches cater to distinct preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Box White V2 is perfect for individuals who appreciate a sharp, audible indication of their keystrokes coupled with a tactile bump, making it ideal for typists who thrive on feedback. In contrast, the Hibiscus offers a smoother, lighter experience, perfect for users seeking a more effortless typing feel without sacrificing sound quality. Depending on individual preferences, one can choose either switch type to enjoy the unique qualities they bring to the typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a pronounced audible click, the Box White V2 is the right choice for you. Its light actuation force and distinct sound provide engaging feedback that some typists and gamers find satisfying, making it ideal for those who thrive on the interaction of sound and feel in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a quieter typing experience, the HMX Hibiscus is likely more aligned with your needs. With its ultra-light actuation and silky-smooth travel, it caters to users who appreciate a seamless typing experience without the distraction of audible clicks. It also boasts a unique sound signature that is clacky, poppy, and crispy, adding character without overwhelming acoustics. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prefer the tactile feedback and sound of the Box White V2 or the unmatched smoothness and subtle soundscape of the HMX Hibiscus—pick the one that best enhances your typing or gaming experience.
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