Kailh Box White vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that offer unique characteristics are the Kailh Box White and the Everglide Sakura Pink. On one hand, the Box White switch is a clicky switch that provides maximum audio feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying and tactile typing experience. With its "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility, this switch is perfect for users who appreciate a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy feel when typing. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switch is a linear switch that offers a completely different experience. Boasting a feather-light 35g actuation force, these switches are perfect for delicate typists who prefer an easy-to-press and frictionless typing experience. With a delightful poppy sound reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, the Sakura Pink switches add a playful touch to your keyboarding sessions. Both switches have their 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
35g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Polycarbonate
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 Everglide Sakura Pink both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for enhanced illumination. In terms of aesthetics and sound, the top housings of both switches will yield similar results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a notable difference between the two. The Box White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound and contributes to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements its top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Sakura Pink enhances its overall sound by producing a clearer and more resonant profile.
When using switches with different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be distinct in their impact on the switch's sound. Pressing down on either the Box White or the Sakura Pink will primarily highlight the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The top housing, however, will have a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches offer a unique sound experience due to the combination of their contrasting housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, we can see several notable differences. The Box White has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to Sakura Pink's 35 grams, making it slightly heavier to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Box White has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Sakura Pink requires only 45 grams to fully press down. Therefore, in terms of weight, the Box White switch is comparatively heavier than the Sakura Pink switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Sakura Pink switch more appealing, allowing for prolonged typing sessions without strain. On the other hand, the Box White switch offers a stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, these differences in actuation and bottom out forces cater to users with varying preferences for lighter or heavier switches, ensuring that both options offer their own unique typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch have different travel distances. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sakura Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is considered the most standard, while 3.0 mm is the shallowest. The Box White falls on the shallower end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a sense of depth and solidity. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Box White with its shorter travel distance would be the ideal option. However, if you prefer a switch with a greater sense of depth, the Sakura Pink with its longer travel distance would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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 is known for its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound. Typing on these switches will provide a clean and sharp sound profile, similar to the sound of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink switch offers a more muted sound, producing softer and quieter typing noise. It creates a delightful poppy sound, reminiscent of popping bubble wrap, giving a playful touch to your typing experience. If you prefer a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience, the Box White switch is a great choice. However, if you prefer a more subtle and muted typewriter-like sound, the Sakura Pink switch would be a better option.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This is due to the smooth and refined finish of the switch, reducing friction and offering smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink switch offers a buttery, creamy, easy-to-press, and frictionless typing experience. These switches have a smooth and fluid keystroke, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. They require minimal force to activate, making typing comfortable and reducing finger fatigue. The Sakura Pink switch provides a silky sensation, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys.
Overall, both the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch offer unique subjective qualities. The Box White switch provides maximum audio feedback with its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound, while the Sakura Pink switch offers a more subtle and muted typing noise, reminiscent of popping bubble wrap. In terms of feel, the Box White switch offers a polished finish for a sleek typing experience, while the Sakura Pink switch provides a buttery, creamy, easy-to-press, and frictionless keystroke sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a clicky switch with a sharper sound and a refined typing feel, the Box White switch is recommended. Conversely, if you prefer a linear switch with a muted sound and a smooth, nearly effortless typing experience, the Sakura Pink switch is the ideal choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize maximum audio feedback and enjoy a more resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound when typing, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the ideal choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, you can expect a tactile experience that feels like stepping on autumn leaves. Additionally, the Box White provides a polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a quieter typing experience, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches are perfect for delicate typists. The Sakura Pink offers a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, these switches are described as buttery, creamy, easy-to-press, and frictionless, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch depends on your preference for sound and feel. Consider the level of audio feedback, the pitch of the sound, and the desired tactile experience. Remember to factor in your typing style and personal preference for switch weight. By taking these factors into account, you can select the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
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