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The journey to find a replacement for MX Clears... and Zealios V2

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TheSoulhunter:
So, after my decade-long hibernation from this hobby, I wanted to explore the vastly expanded world of key-switches.

For about 15 years, I used three switches: Cherry MX Clears, Ergo-Clears and, and since 2019 Zealios V2

I really loved Clears...



But ultimately I ended up liking the Zealios more ^^;

However...

What was once a niche landscape with fewer than 10 switch options has transformed into a candy-store boasting 100+ variants.
Driven by curiosity and nostalgia, I sought to evaluate modern tactile switches that could match or surpass Clears/Zealios...

So I got bunch of switch-samplers and individual switches from SwitchOddities to make up my mind.

I ended up with a couple contenders which I tested across 3 keyboards (Tofu60, Agar, CSTM80).




Two switches ended up as my finalists: Kailh Crystal Royal Box and Kailh Box V2 Brown

Below is a evaluation of my findings...


Kailh Crystal Royal Box





Tactile Feedback: The Box Royal delivers a sharp and pronounced tactile bump surpassing Clears. Also the Box stem design eliminates wobble.

Sound: They produce a medium-pitched “clack” and are overall less hollow sounding than Clears and the Zealios.

Performance: Great for typing, not so good for gaming (I always preferred linear switches here).

Verdict: Even compared to Zealios V2, Royals feel more aggressive. Great!



Kailh Crystal Box V2 Brown





Tactile Feedback: The Box V2 Browns deliver a even sharper (yet less stronger) bump than the Box Royal.

Sound: More "thocky" and quieter than the Royals, especially on the Agar.

Performance: Great for typing, somewhat usable for gaming.

Verdict: Great replacement for my Ergo-Clears.


So...

Both Kailh switches address the flaws of Clears (scratchiness and stem-wobble).
Royals might replace my Zealios (not sure yet, ask again in 3 years or so).
Box V2 Brown WILL replace my Ergo-Clears.
Zealios remain a benchmark to me.

Returning to the mechanical keyboard hobby in 2025 has been an enlightening experience.
The Kailh Box Royal and Box Brown V2 exemplify the industry’s advancements.
I continue to assess whether they outshine my beloved Zealios V2.
Both have reignited my passion for the craft.

Just my 2 Cents as an Oldtimer...

I welcome your input and perspectives!
Which modern tactiles have captured your interest?
What are your suggestion for linear switches? Are the Oil/Ink switches a good replacement for vintage Blacks?





As a bonus, my praise to the Zealios...

HungerMechanic:
This is interesting. Thanks for posting this.

For MX Clear replacements, I sometimes prefer Durock Medium Tactile. Which is inspired by Zealio V1 / V2. The new Gateron Longjing Tea are somewhat nice, but maybe too gentle for your requirements.

For you, I would recommend some other switches in the Ergo Clear category. The JWK/Durock or JWICK T1 were often rated as being 'better Ergo Clears.' Some interesting variants of the T1 are the SP Star Polaris Purple. Some people prefer the SP Star version of things.

The Everfree Grayish are definitely worth trying, if they are still being sold at budget prices. They are Gateron's attempt at a budget heavy-tactile. You could compare and contrast them with KTT Matcha, which may be too light for you.

Most of the items I just listed, except for Everfree Grayish, probably aren't 'crunchy' enough for you. What some people do is put Durock Medium Tactile stems inside T1 housings. This produces a ramped-up Ergo Clear.

The MMD Princess switches are very, very affordable heavier tactiles, and most people would also try the more upscale U4T tactiles. The Haimu WS Heavy Tactiles are something cheap to experiment with.

People who use them favour the Durock Anubis. Others speak well of the Tecsee Purple Pandas. One of the most tactile switches available, possibly worth trying for you, are the Zeal Clickiez in tactile-mode.

HungerMechanic:
Despite everything I just said, you have a 'clear' preference. If BOX Royals and Crystal BOX Brown are ideal for you, most of those other switches I mentioned won't replicate their typing characteristics.

TheSoulhunter:
Thanks for your feedback! I will give your suggestions a try if I am able to obtain the switches easily....
There were some switches I got from SwitchOddities which I liked, but I had to disqualify them as they were discontinued.

TheSoulhunter:
I was just told that Zeal, while no more offering the V2, now offers s "Crystal" switch...
From what I read, it is based on the V2, but has a even more pronounced tactile bump?
Gonna put these on the "to try" list as well. They are pricey, but at least they are available.

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