Kailh Box White vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, one must consider their preferences for feedback and typing experience. The Kailh Box White is a clicky switch that provides maximum audio feedback with a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and a pronounced tactility. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet is a tactile switch that offers a smooth actuation and a poppy tactility. While the Box White is categorized as resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy, the Violet is categorized as stepped and neutral. If you prefer a more audibly satisfying typing experience, the Box White may be the switch for you. However, if you prioritize a balanced and smooth typing experience, the Violet may be the better choice. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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
Overall, both the Kailh Box White and Jerrzi Violet switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the aesthetics of the switches. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Box White utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, contributing to a similar deep and full sound profile as the Box White.
Despite both switches having similar top and bottom housing materials, the split in qualities between the top and bottom housing can still affect the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing material is more pronounced when bottoming out keys, influencing the sound and feel at that moment. In contrast, the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound when keys are released, offering a distinctive sound profile during key travel. This differentiation in housing materials showcases how small variations can lead to unique typing experiences and sound profiles between switches.
In conclusion, while both the Kailh Box White and Jerrzi Violet switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials create slight variations in sound profiles. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a fuller and deeper sound during typing, with the softness of the material absorbing more sound. Understanding how each housing material impacts the overall typing experience, whether it be during bottoming out or key release, highlights the intricacies of switch design and the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing feel and sound.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch with 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box White requires 60 grams while the Violet's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Box White is slightly heavier than the Violet. Choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Violet switch, which has a lighter actuation force. On the other hand, the Box White switch may be more suitable for users who prefer a heavier push feel for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience. The slight 0.1 mm difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, as both are considered on the shorter end of the spectrum. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of the feel and feedback of the switch rather than the minute difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 clicky switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched profile, offering a sharp and clean auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch provides a more neutral sound signature, catering to those who prefer a balanced and less intense typing experience. The difference in sound between these two switches is quite significant, with the Box White being more audibly captivating compared to the softer sound of the Violet.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch is characterized as stepped, providing a tactile feel with two distinct stages in the keystroke. This means that users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, offering a different tactile experience compared to the consistent tactility of the Box White. With these differences in feel, users can choose between a sleek and polished typing experience or a more nuanced tactile feedback.
Overall, for those seeking a keyboard switch with maximum audio feedback and an immersive sound experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if a user values a smooth actuation and gentle tactile feedback for a balanced typing experience, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch would be a suitable option. Each switch offers unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the decision between the Box White and Violet switch will depend on the individual's priorities in sound and feel when it comes to their mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that provides maximum audio feedback with a crisp and sharp sound profile, then the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle tactile experience with a smooth actuation and a balanced sound signature, then the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or tactile feel in your typing experience. Consider your preferences and typing style when selecting the switch that best suits your needs.
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