Kailh Box White vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, such as the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it's important to consider the specific features and characteristics that each switch offers. The Box White switch is perfect for those who enjoy maximum audio feedback, with a distinctive "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility when typing. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a delightful combination of features, including a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump for a pleasant typing experience. Both switches are unique in their own way, offering different levels of sound and tactility to suit individual preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a more vibrant lighting effect. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when typing on these switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Box White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing. With both switches featuring a nylon bottom housing, users can appreciate the unique sound experience that this material brings to their typing sessions.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Kailh Box White and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers users a well-rounded typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound profile, especially when coupled with RGB lighting, while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the sound produced by each key press. Whether typing on the Box White or the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with a unique sound profile thanks to the combination of these housing materials.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch both fall into the medium weight category, with the Box White being slightly heavier. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is slightly lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The lighter weight of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be preferred by those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, as it requires less force to activate. On the other hand, the heavier weight of the Box White may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box White being on the shorter end and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Box White for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 and high-pitched experience with a crunchy sound reminiscent of walking on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is described as having a higher-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience. Both switches offer unique auditory feedback, with the Box White providing a cleaner and sharper sound, while the Lavender Purple Pro offers a delightful higher-pitched sound.
In terms of feel, the Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch, on the other hand, is characterized as accented, providing a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the Lavender Purple Pro switch is also described as bouncy and snappy, offering a lively and responsive typing experience. Both switches provide unique tactile feedback, with the Box White excelling in smoothness and refinement, while the Lavender Purple Pro offers a bouncy and snappy typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Box White excels in providing a resonant and crunchy sound with a polished and smooth typing experience, while the Lavender Purple Pro delivers a higher-pitched sound with accented tactility, bouncy feedback, and snappy responsiveness. Depending on personal preference for sound profile and tactile feedback, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer satisfying qualities that contribute to an enjoyable and tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preference for audio feedback and tactile feel. If you enjoy maximum audio feedback with a higher-pitched sound profile and a crunchy tactile bump, the Box White switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced tactile experience with an accented tactile bump and a smooth key travel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you enjoy the most.
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