TTC Bluish White vs. Kailh Box White
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Kailh Box White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in search of the perfect mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing preferences? Look no further, as we present to you the TTC Bluish White and the Kailh Box White switches. The Bluish White is a tactile switch that offers a satisfyingly poppy typing experience, accompanied by a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Box White is a clicky switch that provides maximum audio feedback, resembling the crunch of stepping on autumn leaves. While both switches offer their unique advantages, such as the buttery and mild feel of the Bluish White, and the resonant and crunchy nature of the Box White, it is important to delve deeper beyond these generalities to make the best decision for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and Kailh Box White have similar housing materials in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the top housing of both switches.
However, the bottom housing of the TTC Bluish White and the Kailh Box White differ in material. The Bluish White features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the fact that nylon is a relatively softer plastic and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Box White also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which brings similar sound qualities of depth and fullness. Therefore, users can expect comparable sound profiles from both switches due to the nylon bottom housing.
When it comes to the overall feel of the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing play a significant role. As the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, users will experience the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing when pressing down on the switches. On the flip side, the sound profile when releasing a key is influenced more by the qualities of the top housing. With the polycarbonate top housing being present in both switches, users can anticipate a crisper and resonant sound when letting go of a key, providing a satisfying audio experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Bluish White has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, while the Box White requires a slightly heavier 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, for bottoming out, the Bluish White has a force of 50 grams, whereas the Box White requires a higher 60 grams of force.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Bluish White switch would be the ideal choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. This makes it suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel might opt for the Box White switch, which requires a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. This provides a more tactile and pronounced typing experience.
Although the forces required for the switches differ, both options offer distinct advantages depending on personal preferences. If preferred, one can achieve similar results by adjusting their typing technique to exert a force similar to the lighter or heavier switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches should be based on individual preference for typing feel and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, it is evident that the Bluish White has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Box White has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common and 3.0 mm being the shallowest. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. Opting for the Bluish White switch would result in a more responsive touch experience. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press sensation may find the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a shorter, more rapid response or a longer, more gratifying depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Bluish White switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This means that the switches produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White switch is described as having a resonant and high-pitched sound profile. When typing on these switches, expect a clean and sharp sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The Box White switch provides maximum audio feedback and an immersive auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, both the TTC Bluish White and Kailh Box White switches are described as having a polished finish. This indicates that both switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the TTC Bluish White switch is also described as buttery, which implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The TTC Bluish White switch is further described as mild, as it offers a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Bluish White switch is also mentioned to have a stepped feel, meaning it provides a subtle pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. On the other hand, the description of the Kailh Box White switch only mentions its polished finish, without providing any further information on its specific feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and Kailh Box White clicky switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bluish White switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a buttery, mild, and stepped feel. It provides a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile and a smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the Box White switch has a resonant and high-pitched sound profile with a crunchy feeling. While both switches have a polished finish, the specific feel of the Box White switch is not provided in the available information. If you are seeking a similar sound and feel to the Bluish White switch, you can expect to get a comparable experience with the Kailh Box White switch, especially in terms of its polished finish.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches offer a buttery and mild feel, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The sound profile of the Bluish White switch is low-pitched, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
On the other hand, if you prefer maximum audio feedback and a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be a better option for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches produce a clean and sharp sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. The Box White switches also have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a lighter typing experience with a gentle tactile feedback and lower-pitched sound, go for the Bluish White. If you value maximum audio feedback and a higher-pitched sound, along with a polished finish, opt for the Box White. Consider your typing style, preferences, and working environment when making your decision. In the end, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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