Kailh Box White vs. Durock Sea Glass

Overview

Introducing the Kailh Box White and the Durock Sea Glass, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences for users seeking different sensations. The Box White, a clicky switch, is perfect for those who crave maximum audio feedback with a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and pronounced tactility. On the other hand, the Sea Glass, a linear switch, captures attention with its captivating pastel colors, emanating a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness during typing. While the Sea Glass may seem lightweight and frictionless, their smoothness remains uncompromised, defying expectations with their 62g bottom-out force. Typing on the Sea Glass switches also reveals a unique hollow sound signature, adding to their overall appeal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White Clicky

Durock Sea Glass Linear

$2.76 per 10

$5.80

$4.87 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Durock Sea Glass switches differ in several aspects. The Box White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Sea Glass features a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness. It also allows for the use of RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a more pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. Both materials have their own unique sound characteristics, providing users with varying options based on their preferences.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Box White employs a nylon material, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Sea Glass utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its bottom housing. This unique blend also contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch, providing a pleasant and possibly brighter tone. These differences in the bottom housing material affect the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed.

It is important to note that the top housing of a switch has a significant impact on the sound when a key is released. Conversely, the qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Thus, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom sections of a switch can greatly affect the overall typing experience. While the Kailh Box White and Durock Sea Glass differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Box White leaning towards a crisper and sharper sound, and the Sea Glass providing a pleasant and possibly brighter tone.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Kailh Box White clicky switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both of which are considered medium in terms of weight. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams but a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, again falling into the medium range.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch may be the better option with its slightly lower actuation force. This can be beneficial for those who type for extended periods of time, whether it be for work or gaming, as it can help reduce finger fatigue. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel, the Kailh Box White clicky switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force may be the preferred choice.

It is important to note that while there are differences between the actuation and bottom out forces of these two switches, they are still relatively similar. Therefore, individuals who prefer the feel of one switch may still achieve similar results with the other, as the variances in weight are relatively minor. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences and typing style.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch have different travel distances. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sea Glass has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both of these distances are shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, indicating that they are designed for faster response times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer switches with shorter travel distances for quick keystrokes. If you prioritize responsiveness and swift typing, the Kailh Box White switch with its 3.6 mm travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial and deep keystroke, you may find the Durock Sea Glass switch with its 3.8 mm travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference and typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Box White clicky switch is best known for its maximum audio feedback, providing a distinct and immersive auditory experience. When typing on these switches, you can expect a sound profile that is clean, sharp, and resonant. The switch produces a high-pitched and crisp sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. This clicky switch offers a satisfying crunch and an accented tactility that enhances the typing experience.

On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch stands out with its unique qualities. The proprietary material blend of these switches creates a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness in their typing experience. Despite its 62g bottom-out force, the Sea Glass switches possess a weightlessness that defies expectations, making them feel frictionless. Typing on these switches reveals a uniquely hollow sound signature. While the specific sound descriptors for the Sea Glass switches are unknown, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also 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, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The polished finish of these switches results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switches are frictionless, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. These switches feel mild and approachable to most typists, as their qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Sea Glass switches are feathery, meaning they are exceptionally light to press and require minimal exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions.

While the sound and feel of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch differ significantly, both switches offer their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you desire maximum audio feedback and the satisfying crunch of a clicky switch, the Box White is a great choice. However, if you prefer a distinct dryness and weightless feel with smooth key travel, the Sea Glass switches are worth considering. Regardless of your choice, it is essential to keep in mind that the sound and feel can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, based on the available information, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offer contrasting but equally appealing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and priorities. If you value maximum audio feedback and enjoy a crunchy tactile feel when typing, the Box White switch would be a suitable choice for you. The resonant and high-pitched sound profile of this switch would offer an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the Box White ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you prioritize a unique typing experience with a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness, the Sea Glass switch series by Durock would be a great option. Despite its 62g bottom-out force, these switches possess a weightlessness that defies expectations, thanks to their frictionless nature. Typing on the Sea Glass switches also reveals a uniquely hollow sound signature. Furthermore, the Sea Glass switches offer a feathery, easy-to-press feel, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.

In the end, it's all about personal preference and finding the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience. Whether you lean towards the crisp and tactile feedback of the Box White or the dry and weightless sensation of the Sea Glass, both switches have their own strengths and appeal. Consider what you value most in a switch and make your decision accordingly. Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White Clicky

$2.76 per 10

Learn more

Durock Sea Glass Linear

$5.80

$4.87 per 10

Learn more