KTT Ash Gray vs. Kailh Box White V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Box White V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Box White V2 each offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch stands out for its balanced tactile response, combining a light touch with a crisp actuation, delivering substantial yet unobtrusive feedback that is ideal for prolonged typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. Its design emphasizes a mild and neutral experience, attracting users who appreciate tactile sensations without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 switches are recognized for their pronounced click sound and strong tactile feedback, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy an auditory and physical confirmation when pressing a key. The clear, crisp click of the Box White V2 not only enhances typing satisfaction but can also serve as a delightful auditory cue in a lively workspace. Both switches present compelling reasons to include them in your typing experience, whether you value a softer tactile feel or the engaging sound of a click. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Box White V2 switches, one notable similarity is their construction. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which significantly influences their sound profile. The use of polycarbonate allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is crisp and resonant, largely due to its relatively stiffer nature. This characteristic helps enhance the clarity of the sound produced when keys are released, making both switches ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate an articulate auditory feedback. The aesthetic appeal of polycarbonate also adds to the functionality of the switches, especially for users with RGB lighting setups, as the translucency of the material allows for vibrant illumination effects.
In contrast, the two switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to the overall auditory experience in a different way. The nylon material is softer compared to polycarbonate, absorbing sound more effectively and resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This combination of materials means that while both switches share a similar high-pitched sound when the key is released, the Ash Gray will produce a more rounded sound during the bottoming-out phase due to the nylon bottom housing, while the Box White V2 will maintain a slightly more pronounced and clearer auditory character. This balance of tonal properties can influence the typing experience based on one's preferences for sound and feedback.
Ultimately, the differences in bottom and top housing materials in the KTT Ash Gray and Kailh Box White V2 switches showcase how the combination of nylon and polycarbonate can create varied sound profiles. While both switches boast unique qualities, they harmonize well to produce an engaging typing experience. The polycarbonate top ensures that lighter, more transparent sounds are evident during key release, whereas the nylon bottom contributes depth and fullness when the keys are pressed down. As such, users can appreciate distinct tonal responses based on which switch they choose, while similarly enjoying the benefits brought by the respective materials employed.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Ash Gray features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Box White V2's 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, particularly during extended typing sessions. While the Ash Gray has a slightly higher bottom out force of 53 grams, the Box White V2 bottoms out at 50 grams, indicating that the KTT switch may provide a more substantial feel when fully pressed down, despite its lighter actuation. Ultimately, those who favor a lighter switch for ease of typing might lean towards the Ash Gray, whereas those who appreciate a firmer feel may find the Box White V2 more to their liking, especially considering its increased actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch, we find that the Ash Gray features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Box White V2 measures at 3.6 mm. This places the Ash Gray as the shorter-switch option and the Box White V2 as the longer one. For those who favor a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance of the Ash Gray may be preferable, allowing for quicker actuation during typing or gaming. Conversely, if you enjoy a more substantial key press and a slightly deeper travel, the Box White V2's longer travel distance could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches provide unique tactile experiences, but if you're looking for a swift response, the Ash Gray is your best bet, whereas the Box White V2 offers a fuller depth for a more deliberate feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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 KTT Ash Gray switch presents a neutral profile that strikes a balance between moderation in both actuation force and auditory output. This makes it versatile enough to be suitable for various environments, whether you are a beginner typing in a quiet office or an experienced user gaming at home. The Box White V2, on the other hand, is known for its unmistakable audible click, providing a crisp and satisfying sound with each keystroke. The sharp click of the Box White V2 is louder and more pronounced than the Ash Gray, making it ideal for those who enjoy an audible notification of their key presses and prefer a more assertive, clicky typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is characterized by its easy-to-press action, requiring minimal force to activate while providing gentle resistance during use. This design not only enhances typing comfort but reduces fatigue, making it a solid choice for those who spend long hours at their keyboard. The tactile feedback offered by the Ash Gray is substantial yet unobtrusive, making it approachable for a wide range of users. In contrast, the feel of the Box White V2 is robust, but specific feel characteristics of this switch are less defined in the provided information. However, it’s important to note that its clicky nature typically implies a more significant tactile response, which appeals to those who appreciate a pronounced feedback during typing.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray switch offers a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press, mild tactile experience that is well-suited to users seeking comfort and versatility. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 switch stands out with its audible click and tactile feedback that caters to a preference for a more engaging typing experience. While the sound of each switch varies, the Ash Gray maintains a lower auditory profile, whereas the Box White V2 provides sharper acoustics. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences but in distinctly different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Box White V2 switches, your selection should hinge on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a subtle tactile experience that provides satisfying feedback without being overly pronounced, the KTT Ash Gray is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom out force makes it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions, while its neutral sound profile allows for versatile use, whether at home or in an office setting. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation accompanied by an audible click, the Kailh Box White V2 is the one for you. Its light actuation force combined with the distinct click can make your typing feel more engaging and lively, which is particularly appealing for gamers or typists who love that noticeable feedback. In essence, the decision comes down to whether you prefer a smooth, understated typing experience with the Ash Gray or a dynamic, clicky feel with the Box White V2, allowing you to tailor your keyboard to best fit your personal style and requirements.
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