Kailh Box White V2 vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can significantly enhance your typing experience, and two popular options are the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g. The Box White V2 is celebrated for its clicky mechanism, providing satisfying tactile feedback and an audible click that many typists adore for its responsiveness and authentic mechanical feel, making it an excellent choice for those who thrive on that auditory stimulation while typing. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for tranquility, featuring a linear design that ensures smooth key presses without the distracting sound of clicks. With its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, this switch is perfect for users who prefer a softer touch and a more serene typing experience, ideal for office environments or late-night gaming sessions. Both switches have their unique charm and appeal: the Box White V2 enhances engagement with its lively feedback, while the Silent Sakura promotes focus and minimizes noise. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, notable differences in sound profiles and material properties emerge. The Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is largely due to the material’s stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for users who want to showcase RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g utilizes a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer qualities. This nylon material absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts distinctly with the sharper tone of the Box White V2.
The bottom housings of the two switches further illustrate their differing sound dynamics. The Kailh Box White V2 is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, which aligns with its use in creating a duller, rounder sound. As nylon absorbs sound waves, it contributes to a softer typing experience overall. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g features a polycarbonate bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate here fosters a sharper bottom-out sound due to its firmer properties. This difference means that while both switches can provide tactile feedback, the auditory feedback will vary significantly depending on which switch is pressed, with the Silent Sakura delivering a sound profile that is more resonant and lively compared to the quieter tones of the Box White V2.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switches leads to unique user experiences, particularly in terms of sound and tactile feedback. Users seeking a crisper, brighter sound may prefer the Kailh Box White V2, while those looking for a more muted, deeper auditory experience might gravitate towards the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g. Despite these differences, both switches are capable of producing satisfying typing experiences; the interplay of the materials in each results in distinct auditory and tactile sensations. Therefore, whether opting for the Box White V2's polycarbonate and nylon combination or the Silent Sakura's counterbalance of nylon and polycarbonate, users can expect a rich and enjoyable typing experience, albeit with differing sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch to the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, we observe notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This indicates that the Silent Sakura is easier to press, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons, as it requires less effort for each keystroke. In contrast, the Box White V2, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer feel. Ultimately, the Kailh Box White V2 is the heavier option, while the HMX Silent Sakura is the lighter choice.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch exhibit distinct travel distances, with the former measuring 3.6 mm and the latter measuring 4 mm. This means that the Kailh Box White V2 is the shorter of the two, catering to those who favor a more responsive keypress for quicker reaction times, which is particularly beneficial for gamers. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura's longer travel distance of 4 mm aligns more with traditional switch preferences, providing a more pronounced feel that some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt during typing. Therefore, while both switches serve different user preferences effectively, if you're seeking a more responsive experience, the Kailh Box White V2 would be the ideal choice, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura would appeal to those desiring a more substantial depth in their keystrokes.
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 Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 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 White V2 clicky switch produces a distinct, crisp auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying and engaging. The audible click is pronounced, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory cue while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch offers an incredibly subtle experience that prioritizes quietness. With a sound profile reminiscent of gentle raindrops, this switch is designed for users who prefer minimal noise, making it suitable for shared or noise-sensitive environments. The combination of their unique sound characteristics makes them suitable for different typing scenarios depending on your preference for auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 is characterized by its tactile bump combined with the click, providing a clear point of actuation that many find satisfying for both typing and gaming. Users generally appreciate the feedback that allows for precise keystrokes. On the contrary, the Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered to deliver an ultra-light typing experience with a smooth actuation that lacks any tactile feedback or audible click. This linear design means that the switch glides smoothly from top to bottom, appealing primarily to those who favor light and fluid keystrokes without interruptions in the typing rhythm.
Overall, the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g present two distinct typing experiences. The Box White V2 is the go-to choice for users who thrive on auditory feedback and tactile engagement while typing, whereas the Silent Sakura caters to those who seek a quiet, smooth, and lightweight experience. Choosing between them will largely depend on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or the need for a serene typing atmosphere. Both switches showcase the diversity available in mechanical keyboard options, allowing you to tailor your typing experience to your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you thrive in an environment where auditory feedback enhances your typing experience, the Box White V2 is an excellent choice. Its crisp tactile feedback and pronounced click sound can make typing feel engaging and enjoyable, making it particularly well-suited for those who value a more interactive and lively soundscape, perhaps for gaming or typing-intensive tasks where every key press can feel satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter and more discreet typing experience—especially in shared spaces or during late-night work sessions—the Silent Sakura switches are the way to go. With their understated, gentle feel and almost silent operation, they provide a serene typing environment that allows you to focus without distraction. Additionally, the lighter 43g bottom-out force makes them ideal for low-effort typing, which can be particularly beneficial if you’re prone to fatigue during longer typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your environment, typing style, and what kind of feedback you find pleasurable in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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