Kailh Box White vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular among computer enthusiasts and gamers for their superior durability and satisfying typing experience. When it comes to choosing the perfect switch for your keyboard, the Kailh Box White and Jwick Taro switches offer two distinct options. The Box White is a clicky switch, renowned for providing maximum audio feedback with its "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility. On the other hand, the Taro is a tactile switch, offering a cozy typing experience with its snappy, medium-level of tactility and acute, crisp clacks. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Jwick Taro switches share several similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housing materials also allows for the switches to have a translucent design, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. Additionally, both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound.
While the top and bottom housings of the two switches may have similar qualities, they also exhibit some differences. The specific material used in the top housing of each switch might vary, although both are described as polycarbonate. This variance in material composition could potentially lead to subtle differences in sound and feel. Additionally, the bottom housing of the switches plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound emitted when a key is released.
Ultimately, while the Kailh Box White and the Jwick Taro switches share comparable housing materials, small variations in their composition may result in slightly different sound and feel profiles. However, due to the use of polycarbonate and nylon housings in both switches, users can expect similar characteristics such as a sharper sound profile from the polycarbonate and a deeper sound profile from the nylon. The choice between the two switches may ultimately come down to individual preferences for subtle differences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Taro's actuation force is unknown. Both switches have a medium level of actuation force, which means they provide a fairly light and responsive typing experience.
In terms of bottom out force, the Box White has a slightly higher force requirement with 60 grams, compared to the Taro's 67 grams. This indicates that the Taro switch gives a slightly heavier feel when pressing all the way down.
Considering weight, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Box White switch, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. This could be particularly advantageous for those using the keyboard for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, for users who desire a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Taro switch's heavier bottom out force may be more appealing.
In summary, the actuation force is similar between the two switches, albeit with an unknown value for the Taro switch. However, the Box White has a slightly lighter bottom out force compared to the Taro, making it the lighter option overall.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Taro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both of these distances are shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance and indicate a more modern preference for shorter travel distances. Gamers in particular often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Box White switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. However, it's important to note that shorter travel distances can feel more abrupt to some users. If you prefer a switch with a more substantial depth, the Taro switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Overall, it's a matter of personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 and high-pitched qualities. Typing on these switches produces a clean and sharp sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. It offers a moderate level of sound with no specific descriptors mentioned. However, it is important to note that the sound of 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, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch is described as buttery. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the Taro switch is mentioned to have a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactility, allowing for some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations.
To summarize, the Kailh Box White switch excels in providing maximum audio feedback with its resonant and high-pitched sound profile, combined with an accented tactility. It offers a polished feel, ensuring smooth and refined typing. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch offers a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility. Its sound profile is described as neutral, and it provides a buttery keystroke sensation, along with a stepped feel. Overall, both switches have their unique qualities, and depending on personal preferences, one can choose between the clicky and accented tactility of the Box White or the cozy and neutral experience of the Taro, each delivering an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize maximum audio feedback and a crunchy typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, you can expect a satisfying tactile bump and a high-pitched, resonant sound profile that resembles stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Additionally, the Box White switch features a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility and acute and crisp clacks, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be more suitable for you. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, this switch offers a comfortable and uniform typing sensation. The Taro switch is described as neutral in terms of sound, providing a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various purposes.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch will depend on your preferences for audio feedback, typing experience, and sound profile. Consider whether you prioritize a crunchy and resonant typing experience (Box White) or a cozy and snappy typing experience (Taro), and select the switch that aligns with your preferences.
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