Kailh Box White V2 vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, preferences can vary widely based on typing style and auditory feedback. The Kailh Box White V2 switches stand out for their clicky nature, delivering a satisfying tactile bump and a crisp, audible click that many typists appreciate for its feedback and engagement. These features make them ideal for those who love the classic feel of typing reminiscent of typewriters or for users who find acoustic indicators helpful while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight switches offer a linear experience, characterized by a smooth keypress that provides a quieter operation despite retaining the signature clacky sound of HMX switches. With an extended 3.85mm travel distance, these switches cater to individuals who prefer a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience without the distraction of clicks. Whether you're drawn to the tactile feedback of the Box White V2 or the seamlessness of the Twilight switches, each has unique advantages that can enhance your typing experience. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.85 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 housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Twilight switches present a fascinating study in contrasts, particularly when examining their top housings. The Box White V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its rigidity and translucency. This material produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who seek a more pronounced auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight features a nylon top housing, which is often lauded for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon means it absorbs more sound vibrations, leading to a duller and rounder audio output. Consequently, these differences in top housing materials directly influence the overall acoustic performances of each switch.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Box White V2 and the HMX Twilight utilize nylon, which yields similar characteristics in terms of sound production. As nylon is a classic switch housing material, it helps achieve a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. This consistency in using nylon for the bottom housing suggests that users of either switch can expect a similar auditory experience upon bottoming out. However, the impact of each switch's top housing does not create an entirely uniform experience, as the contrasting materials—polycarbonate versus nylon—come into play when considering the sound profile generated during key release.
Ultimately, while the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Twilight switches differ significantly in their top housing materials, both share a common ground through their nylon bottom housings. This means that while the typing experience in terms of feedback and sound will vary due to the top housing, the bottoming out experience will evoke similar auditory sensations thanks to the shared nylon material. Whether users gravitate towards the crispness of polycarbonate or the warmth of nylon, the combination of housing materials in these switches provides a unique and richly varied typing experience that caters to diverse preferences.
Weight
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch offer comparable performance in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, but they cater to slightly different preferences in typing feel. The Box White V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Twilight features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams but shares the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that although both switches have the same bottom out force, the HMX Twilight requires slightly less force to initiate a keystroke, making it the lighter option. For users who favor lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Twilight would be the better choice. Conversely, those who appreciate a more pronounced push feel may prefer the Kailh Box White V2, given its heavier actuation force, which provides a more substantial typing experience. Both switches' bottom out forces being equal means that users will find similar resistance when fully pressing down, but the differences in their actuation forces will lead to distinct typing sensations overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Twilight has a longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means that the Box White V2 is the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers who prioritize faster key presses. In contrast, the Twilight, with its greater travel distance, caters to those who appreciate a more deliberate and deeper actuation, which can prevent the sensation of abruptness that some might find unappealing in shorter switches. Therefore, the choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding the depth of travel and the desired response time.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 sharp, crisp auditory feedback, producing a distinctly loud click with every keystroke. This unmistakable click sound not only serves a functional purpose by providing auditory confirmation of the actuation but also enhances the typing experience for those who seek tactile and audible feedback. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch offers a quieter operation, thanks to its design which emphasizes smooth keystrokes without the pronounced click. While the Twilight maintains the clacky characteristics associated with HMX switches, its sound profile is notably subdued compared to the Box White V2, making it more suited for quieter environments or those who prefer less noise during typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switches provide a tangible tactile bump that signifies actuation, delivering a satisfying and responsive typing experience. This tactile feedback caters well to typists who appreciate a clear distinction between the pre- and post-actuation phases of keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch is characterized by its smooth and uninterrupted key travel, offering a more fluid typing experience without any tactile bump. This design caters to users who prefer a seamless keystroke without the interruption of tactile feedback, making it ideal for rapid typing and gaming scenarios where consistent actuation is essential.
In conclusion, while both the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Twilight switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, they each offer distinct experiences that can suit varied user needs. The Box White V2 excels for those seeking a louder, tactile typing experience, while the HMX Twilight provides a quieter, smooth operation that appeals to users who prefer linear switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, and users can achieve similar results within their respective categories by selecting based on these qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more tactile experience with an audible click, which can provide satisfying feedback while typing or gaming, the Box White V2 would be an excellent choice. Its lighter force of 50 grams makes it suitable for fast-paced gaming and typing, enhancing your overall experience with its distinctive sound and feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter experience while still appreciating a responsive key press, the HMX Twilight linear switch is likely more suited to your needs. With its extended travel distance and subtle clacky characteristics, the Twilight allows for a fluid typing motion without the distraction of loud clicks, making it a great option for prolonged typing sessions, programming, or office work. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you crave the tactile feedback of clicky switches or the seamlessness of linear switches, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience aligns perfectly with your gaming and typing preferences.
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