Kailh Box White vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between a clicky switch like the Kailh Box White and a linear switch like the Cherry MX Silent Red can greatly impact your typing experience. The Box White switch offers a satisfyingly clicky sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, with a pronounced tactility that some users find extremely gratifying. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red provides a quieter typing experience while retaining the smooth keypress of the classic MX Red switch. The decision between the two ultimately comes down to personal preferences for auditory feedback and typing feel. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and Cherry MX Silent Red, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to its softness and sound absorption capabilities. This creates a duller and rounder sound when the key is bottomed out, providing a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a quieter switch.
On the other hand, the top housing of the Kailh Box White is made from polycarbonate, while the Cherry MX Silent Red features a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top housing. This difference in material leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile for the Box White, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more distinct typing sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the switch.
Overall, while both switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housing, the choice of material for the top housing sets them apart. The Kailh Box White's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top housing yields a deeper and fuller sound profile, catering to users who prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch with 45 grams. Both switches have a medium actuation force, which means they are suitable for a wide range of users. However, the Kailh Box White clicky switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has an unknown bottom out force. This difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Cherry MX Silent Red switch for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Box White is slightly shorter than the MX Silent Red. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for quicker response times. However, some users may find the slightly longer travel distance of the MX Silent Red to provide a more substantial keypress feel compared to the Box White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a resonant and high-pitched typing experience, characterized by a crisp and sharp sound similar to crunching autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch provides a muted and low-pitched typing experience, ensuring a quieter typing session ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While the Box White switch delivers a more immersive auditory feedback, the MX Silent Red switch focuses on reducing noise without compromising on the satisfying typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is characterized as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the subtle texture of the MX Silent Red switch, while others may lean towards the polished feel of the Box White switch for a smoother typing experience.
Overall, if you prefer a loud and tactile typing experience with emphasis on auditory feedback, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing session with a slightly heftier feel and smoother keystrokes, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities tailored to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider your preferences and needs carefully. If you value maximum audio feedback and a satisfying tactile experience, the Box White switch with its crunchy sound profile and polished feel may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you work in a noise-sensitive environment or simply prefer a quieter typing experience, the MX Silent Red switch's muted sound profile and slightly textured feel might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you prioritize and what environment you will be using the keyboard in. Choose wisely based on these factors to ensure you have a satisfying typing experience with your mechanical keyboard.
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