Kailh Box White vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and Zuoce Lavender both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Box White is a clicky switch, known for its resonant, high-pitched sound that resembles the crunch of autumn leaves when typing. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender is a linear switch that is praised for its smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature. If you prefer maximum audio feedback and a tactile typing experience, the Box White may be the right choice for you. However, if you prioritize smoothness and a satisfying keystroke experience, the Lavender switch might be more suitable. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and Zuoce Lavender switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Box White's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the Lavender's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box White is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the POM top housing of the Lavender offers a more solid appearance.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Box White utilizes a nylon material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Lavender's POM bottom housing contributes to the switch's deep and muted sound profile. Both housing materials create a unique typing experience, with the nylon providing a slightly different sound compared to the POM.
While the top and bottom housings of the Kailh Box White and Zuoce Lavender switches have different materials, the overall typing experience is influenced by both. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials. Ultimately, whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Box White or the deeper sound of POM in the Lavender, you are sure to get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is evident that the Box White has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the 48 grams of the Lavender. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box White requires 60 grams while the Lavender only needs 53 grams. This makes the Lavender the lighter option overall. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range in terms of force required, making them suitable for those who prefer a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. For those who enjoy a lighter typing experience, the Lavender would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Box White may appeal to users seeking a more substantial push feel while typing for added precision and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Box White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lavender. A 0.2 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in the overall feel and performance of the switch. Players who prefer a longer travel distance may find the Box White more comfortable, while those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Lavender. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 is known for its resonant and high-pitched qualities, providing a clean and sharp audio feedback akin to stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive, creating a distinct and satisfying typing experience. Both switches excel in providing a unique auditory sensation, with the Box White offering a more resonant and high-pitched sound compared to the Lavender's crisp and clacky notes.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the contrary, the Zuoce Lavender switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. While the Box White focuses on a polished feel, the Lavender prioritizes effortless and comfortable typing with its easy-to-press nature.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White provides a resonant and high-pitched sound with a polished typing experience, while the Lavender offers a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel for a smooth and effortless typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired auditory and tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer unique and satisfying qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. Choose the Box White if you enjoy a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile along with a polished typing experience. Opt for the Lavender if you prefer a clacky sound with an easy-to-press feel that offers smooth key travel and gentle resistance. Ultimately, the Box White is ideal for those seeking maximum audio feedback and a pronounced tactile response, while the Lavender is perfect for those who value smoothness and a satisfying keystroke experience. Make your decision based on the qualities that align best with your typing preferences.
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