Kailh Box White vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box White and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. These switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Box White is renowned for its clicky nature, providing maximum audio feedback that mimics the sound of stepping on autumn leaves. Typing on these switches offers a pronounced crunch and a satisfying tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch that delivers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to the typing experience. It strikes a perfect balance between tactile feedback and avoiding excessive tactility, providing a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. Both switches have their merits, with the Box White excelling in audio feedback and the Viola Tricolor offering a satisfying tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White Clicky

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$2.76 per 10

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Box White and the Haimu Viola Tricolor have similar housing materials in terms of both the top and bottom housings being made of polycarbonate. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics from both switches when it comes to the polycarbonate top housing.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Box White and the Viola Tricolor differ as they both feature nylon as their material choice. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, users can expect a slightly varied sound experience between the two switches, with the Box White having a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Viola Tricolor.

Considering the split qualities of the housing materials, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced when pressing down on the switch. This means that the nylon bottom housing of both the Box White and the Viola Tricolor will play a significant role in the typing experience, providing a tactile and satisfying feel. On the other hand, the sound when letting go of a key will be more influenced by the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing. Thus, users can expect a clear and resonant sound when releasing keys on both switches, thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams, which is considered medium, while the Viola Tricolor's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a medium level of actuation force.

Moving on to bottom out force, the Box White has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is also considered medium. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This means that the Viola Tricolor requires a slightly heavier force to fully press down compared to the Box White.

Considering weight, some users prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it allows for more comfortable use over longer periods. In this regard, both switches can provide a similar experience, as their actuation forces are comparable.

However, for those seeking a more substantial and pronounced typing experience, a heavier push feel may be preferred. In this case, the Viola Tricolor would be the better choice, as its bottom out force is heavier than that of the Box White.

In summary, while the actuation forces of the Kailh Box White and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches are similar, there is a difference in the bottom out force. The Box White has a medium actuation force and medium bottom out force, while the Viola Tricolor's actuation force is unknown, but its bottom out force is medium-heavy. Therefore, users seeking a slightly heavier typing experience may opt for the Viola Tricolor, while those desiring a lighter feel may find both switches to be equally suitable.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm.

If you are a gamer or someone who values faster response times, you may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box White switch. The shorter distance allows for quicker keystrokes and potentially improved performance in gaming or fast-paced typing situations. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and a more pronounced feel when pressing down on a key, the Viola Tricolor switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable for you.

Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both options offer their own advantages, and it's important to consider factors such as tactile feedback, responsiveness, and overall comfort when selecting a switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is best known for its resonant and high-pitched profile, producing a clean and sharp sound that is often likened to stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, characterized by a deeper and richer tone reminiscent of bass tones. While the Box White provides an immersive auditory experience, the Viola Tricolor strikes a balance between a sharp sensation and not overwhelming the user with excessive tactility. 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.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This polished finish reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel, enhancing overall comfort while typing. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is characterized as an accented switch, providing a notable amount of tactility without being overly tactile or scratchy. The Viola Tricolor is frequently described as an invigorating switch, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel during typing.

Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, along with a polished feel that ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile, accompanied by an accented feel that offers a satisfying level of tactility. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, catering to different preferences. If you prefer a sharper sound with a polished feel, the Box White would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you desire a deeper and richer sound with a notable level of tactility, the Viola Tricolor would be a great option. It's important to consider personal preferences and factors such as typing style and the desired typing experience when selecting between these switches.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers maximum audio feedback and a pronounced tactile sensation without being overwhelming, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium actuation force that strikes a balance between ease of typing and satisfying feedback. The Box White switch produces a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, resembling the crisp sound of stepping on autumn leaves. Additionally, it offers a polished and smooth typing experience, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that delivers a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a sharp sensation, but without overpowering the user, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be the perfect fit for you. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a medium-heavy actuation force that provides an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. The Viola Tricolor switch produces a bassy and low-pitched sound, adding a touch of character to your typing experience. It is described as an accented switch, offering a prominent amount of tactility that is satisfying without being overwhelming.

Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize maximum audio feedback and a polished typing experience, the Box White switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a thuddy and punchy sound profile with an invigorating typing sensation, the Viola Tricolor switch would be the ideal choice. Whichever switch you choose, both options provide a satisfying typing experience that will enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White Clicky

$2.76 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn more