Kailh Box White V2 vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White V2 and Cherry MX Purple RGB present unique attributes that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers. The Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its pronounced tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a responsive and lively typing experience. This switch shines in environments where feedback is crucial, allowing for precise keystrokes, perfect for writers or gamers who thrive on quick typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches prioritize a refined tactile experience, featuring a short, medium-strength bump that is developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiasts, offering a softer touch while still providing the tactile feedback many users seek. This makes the MX Purple RGB a solid option for less noisy environments where a subtle yet responsive switch is favored. Both switches have their merits, appealing to varying needs depending on your typing style or intended use. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their respective sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Box White V2 utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, granting it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is a consequence of the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, enhancing sound clarity and resonance. Furthermore, its translucency not only aids in producing a vivid and pronounced RGB lighting effect but also adds to the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper, rounder sound profile. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a dulled auditory experience that may appeal more to users who prefer a less jarring type of feedback.
When examining the bottom housing, both the Kailh Box White V2 and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches utilize nylon. This consistency allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when keys bottom out, as nylon's soft texture contributes to sound absorption. Therefore, while there is a clear disparity in the top housing materials, the similarity in the bottom housing serves to unite the typing experiences across both switches. This shared characteristic leads to a complementary auditory experience despite differing top housing materials, balancing the acoustic contributions when keys are fully pressed down.
Ultimately, the varied materials used in the Kailh Box White V2 and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches create unique typing characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White V2 excels in producing a more pronounced sound suited for those who enjoy a punchier keystroke, while the nylon top housing of the Cherry MX Purple RGB provides a softer typing experience, favoring a more subdued acoustic environment. When pressed, the impact of these materials manifests differently through the bottom-out sound, yet their use of nylon at the bottom housing ensures a level of sonic cohesion. Users seeking a specific auditory feedback from their mechanical switches will find that the choice of housing material is a crucial factor in achieving their desired typing sensations.
Weight
The Kailh Box White V2 and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches exhibit similarities and differences in their actuation forces, which significantly influence the typing experience. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light, which is advantageous for those seeking extended typing sessions without fatigue. However, the Box White V2 has a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a firmer feel when the key is fully pressed down, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB's bottom out force is not specified, leaving it unknown. Without this measurement, it's challenging to compare the overall resistance of the two switches fully. For users who prefer a lightweight switch for longer use, both options will yield similar results in terms of actuation, but the Box White V2 may provide a slightly heavier bottom-out experience for those who value a firmer response. Overall, the Kailh Box White V2 is the lighter choice in terms of bottom-out feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their travel distances, which can significantly affect the typing experience. The Box White V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option between the two, while the MX Purple RGB boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. For those who prioritize responsiveness and speed, the shorter travel distance of the Box White V2 may be preferable, as it allows for quicker key actuation. Conversely, the MX Purple RGB, with its greater travel distance, offers a more substantial feel, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding depth and response times.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 switches are renowned for their crisp, pronounced click that provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke, making it an ideal choice for users who enjoy a prominently audible typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches feature a refined tactile experience that includes a subtle yet distinct bump, but they are not as loud as the Box White V2. The tactile bump on the MX Purple RGB resonates well without being overly distracting, appealing to those who prefer a quieter atmosphere. However, it’s important to note that sound quality can also depend on factors such as the keyboard construction, materials, and keycap choice.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 delivers a sharp and immediate tactile feedback, which many typists find highly engaging and responsive, resulting in a very interactive typing experience. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, on the other hand, provide a medium-strength bump that is less aggressive but still satisfying, allowing for a comfortable typing feel that strikes a good balance between responsiveness and smoothness. These characteristics lead to a tactile sensation that is refined, facilitating productivity while also ensuring a pleasant typing journey.
Overall, both the Kailh Box White V2 and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches cater to different user preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Box White V2 is ideal for those who revel in a loud, clicky auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. Meanwhile, the MX Purple RGB offers a milder, yet satisfying tactile response; optimal for users looking for a balance between response and noise level. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a loud, engaging click or a smoother typing feel with minimal distraction.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a tactile, clicky feedback with a pronounced auditory cue, the Kailh Box White V2 is an excellent choice, particularly if you value a lighter key press (with a bottom out force of 50 grams) that can enhance your typing speed and enjoyment for casual use or gaming. The crisp click sound and satisfying tactile feel can also provide an engaging experience that is particularly suitable for office environments or environments where key sound feedback can be appreciated. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined tactile feel without an overwhelming click, the Cherry MX Purple RGB might be better suited for you. Its medium-strength tactile bump delivers a satisfying yet subtle response, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or coding where quiet performance may take precedence. The lack of excessive noise, paired with its tactile feedback, creates a balanced experience that allows for concentration without distraction. In summary, choose the Kailh Box White V2 for an engaging and audible typing experience, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB is your go-to for a more subdued yet still enjoyable tactile feel.
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