Kailh Box White vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer distinct typing experiences for users. The Box White is ideal for those seeking maximum audio feedback, as it produces a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch-like sound and provides an accented tactility while typing. In contrast, the Purple Sakura offers a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of pronounced tactility without being overpowering. While the Box White is categorized as resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy, the Purple Sakura is described as buttery, mild, and snappy. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box White and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches if RGB lighting is a feature desired by the user. The similar top housing material in both switches ensures that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Box White and Purple Sakura switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with stiffer bottom housing materials. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housings of these switches allows for a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
The differences in top and bottom housing materials in the Kailh Box White and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches result in a unique typing experience. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This design choice allows for a nuanced and dynamic typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, whether one chooses the Box White or Purple Sakura, they can expect a well-rounded typing experience with distinct characteristics influenced by the housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch have similar actuation and bottom out forces, both requiring 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. This means that the typing experience on both switches will feel consistent in terms of force required. However, while both switches have medium actuation and bottom out forces, some users may still feel a slight difference in the feel of each switch due to other factors such as switch design and tactility. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, both switches provide a comfortable weight that allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, users who prefer a heavier typing feel may find that both switches offer a satisfying amount of resistance for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch will come down to personal preference regarding other factors such as sound, tactility, and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Box White has a longer travel distance compared to the Purple Sakura. A shorter travel distance often results in faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White switch offers a resonant and high-pitched experience, resembling the sound of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. This switch provides a clean and sharp auditory feedback that can be immersive for the user. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes without being too overpowering. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
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 other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery and mild tactile response, giving users a seamless and gentle typing sensation. Additionally, the snappy nature of the Purple Sakura switch ensures a super responsive typing experience, making each keystroke feel more alive.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White switch provides a resonant and high-pitched sound with a polished feel, ideal for those who enjoy a crisp and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a buttery and mild tactile feel, catering to users who prefer a smooth and gentle typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences and typing styles, both switches can deliver satisfying results for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are someone who values maximum audio feedback and enjoys a sharp, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile while typing, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a balanced tactility that is not too overpowering, along with a mild and neutral sound signature, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences.
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