Kailh Box White vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the decision often comes down to whether you prefer clicky switches for auditory feedback or linear switches for a smoother keystroke. The Kailh Box White is a popular choice for those who enjoy a clicky switch experience, with its high-pitched sound and crunchy tactile feel reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw offers a unique linear switch option with a blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon materials that create a creamy yet lightweight typing experience. While the Box White provides a polished and resonant typing sensation, the Keygeek Raw offers a textured and subtle feel straight out of the box. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Box White's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a crisper sound. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, which may result in a different sound experience compared to the Box White. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Box White allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, the Box White incorporates nylon, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This can result in a more satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a fuller sound when pressing down on the keys. In comparison, the Keygeek Raw uses a UMPE & Si blend for its bottom housing, providing a unique sound and feel that may differ from the Box White. The different housing materials in the bottom of the switches will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
While the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches offer distinct characteristics, they both play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White and the Nylon & UPE blend top housing of the Keygeek Raw each contribute to the overall sound profile when typing on the switches. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Box White and the UMPE & Si blend bottom housing of the Keygeek Raw impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. Despite their differences, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, we can see some differences. The Box White has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Keygeek Raw's unknown actuation force. However, the Box White has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Keygeek Raw's 57.5 grams. This means that the Box White requires less force to trigger a keystroke but more force to fully press down, while the Keygeek Raw may require more force to trigger a keystroke but less force to bottom out. Both switches fall into the medium force category, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who value faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of these switches. However, if you prefer a more substantial key press with a bit more depth, the Kailh Box White clicky switch may provide a more satisfying feel compared to the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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 clicky switch offers a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy auditory experience that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This switch provides a clean and sharp sound profile that is immersive and satisfying for those who enjoy a distinct clicky sound while typing. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it is important to consider these elements when choosing a switch based on sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. This polished feel enhances the overall typing sensation and is favored by users who prefer a more refined tactile experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw linear switch provides a textured and slightly scratchy feel due to the absence of factory lubrication. This adds a unique tactile element to the typing experience and makes it a great starting point for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing their switches. Additionally, the Keygeek Raw switch offers a mild and subtle typing feel that is approachable to most users and suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box White provides a resonant and high-pitched clicky sound with a polished feel, the Keygeek Raw offers a neutral sound profile with a textured and scratchy typing experience. Both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. Regardless of the choice made, both switches offer solid performance and quality construction that will provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a loud and crisp auditory experience with a tactile feel, the Box White switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a creamy yet lightweight typing experience, the Keygeek Raw switch could be the ideal option. Consider your typing preferences and environment to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
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