Kailh Box White vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a multitude of options to consider. Today, we will be comparing and contrasting two popular switches: the Kailh Box White and the Cherry MX Brown. The Box White, a clicky switch, is perfect for those who crave maximum audio feedback while typing. With its "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility, this switch provides a truly immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Brown, a tactile switch, offers a much subtler experience. Known for its light typing feel, gentle tactility, and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown switch is for those who prefer a more understated yet enjoyable typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the Cherry MX Brown switches differ in the materials used for both their top and bottom housings. The Box White features a polycarbonate top housing, while the MX Brown utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate housing of the Box White produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer nature. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Brown elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. However, the MX Brown has a similar feature to the Box White as both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile experienced while typing.
The contrasting housing materials ultimately result in differences in the sound produced by the two switches. With the polycarbonate top housing, the Box White delivers a sharper and more resonant sound when releasing a key, making it more suitable for users who prefer a crisper sound experience. In contrast, the MX Brown's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound upon releasing a key. This creates a deeper and fuller sound profile that may be preferred by those who enjoy a more muted typing experience.
Additionally, the materials used in the bottom housings of both switches contribute to the overall sound and feel of pressing a key. The nylon bottom housing present in both the Box White and the MX Brown provides a deep and full sound profile while typing. However, it is important to note that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the materials differ, the switches share some similarities in terms of the qualities brought by the nylon bottom housing.
In summary, the Kailh Box White and the Cherry MX Brown switches showcase differences in their housing materials, particularly in the top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the MX Brown creates a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and full sound while typing. Factors such as personal preference for sound and feel will determine which switch is more suitable for individual users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, several differences arise. The Box White has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the MX Brown's 45 grams, making the Box White provide a slightly stronger push feel when triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Box White also has a heavier force of 60 grams, while the MX Brown requires 55 grams, making the Box White a bit heavier overall.
Considering weight, lighter switches like the MX Brown are favored by individuals who prefer typing for extended periods, such as those who use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions. These lighter switches prevent excessive fatigue during continued use. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a more substantial typing experience and opt for switches with heavier forces. The Box White, being heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces, caters to those who desire a stronger push feel and find satisfaction in the additional resistance.
While the forces differ between the Kailh Box White and the Cherry MX Brown, both switches fall within the medium range, providing a relatively balanced typing experience overall. Therefore, users can expect similar results when it comes to actuation and bottoming out, albeit with slight variations in tactile feedback and key resistance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences and typing requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. In this case, the Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. It is worth noting that a 4.0mm travel distance is considered the most traditional, while a 3.0mm distance is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity in recent times, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. For those seeking a more responsive typing experience, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Box White switch may be preferable. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper key press may find the 4 mm travel distance of the MX Brown switch more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76, whereas the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00.
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
The Kailh Box White clicky switch is best known for its maximum audio feedback, offering a satisfying and pronounced typing experience. When typing on these switches, users describe a sound similar to stepping on crisp autumn leaves, creating a resonant and high-pitched sound profile. The Box White switch provides a clean and sharp auditory experience, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more immersive and distinctive typing sound.
On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offers a subtler typing experience. These switches are known for their light actuation force and gentle tactility. When typing on MX Browns, users describe a relatively quiet and subdued audio feedback, creating a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This switch provides a more refined and subtle auditory experience, appealing to those who prefer a quieter and less obtrusive typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. The materials used and possible factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished finish results in a sleek and satisfying feel when typing on the Box White switch.
On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is described as textured, meaning it offers noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can be preferred by some users who appreciate a slight tactile feedback during typing. However, others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience, finding the MX Brown switch less satisfying in terms of feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities. The Box White switch provides a maximum audio feedback, with a resonant, high-pitched sound and a smooth and refined feel. It is an excellent choice for those who desire a distinctive and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch offers a subtler audio feedback, with a bassy, low-pitched sound and a textured feel. It provides a lighter and more subdued typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a quieter and gentler typing sound. Both switches have their unique qualities, and the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize maximum audio feedback and enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience, the Box White switch would be a great choice for you. The "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch sound and accented tactility will provide a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the Box White switch is described as having a polished feel, ensuring smooth and refined key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and gentle typing experience with subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown switch is the way to go. These switches offer a relatively light typing experience with a gentle tactile bump and a more subtle sound profile. The MX Brown switch is described as having a textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed, which may be preferred by some users.
Overall, the Box White switch is ideal for those who crave maximum audio feedback and a pronounced tactile experience, while the MX Brown switch is perfect for individuals who prefer a more subtle and gentle typing experience. Consider your personal preferences for sound and feel when making your decision.
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