Kailh Box Navy vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a heavy typing experience along with the satisfying sound signature and tactility of a clicky switch, the Kailh Box Navy is the perfect fit for you. These switches not only provide a weighty feel reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s but also produce a sharp, resonant, and invigorating sound when pressed. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium tactile feel that offers a precise and comfortable typing experience, then the TTC Silent Bluish White is an excellent choice. These switches provide a satisfying level of resistance when pressed, giving you the perfect amount of feedback. What sets them apart is their ability to minimize noise, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the TTC Silent Bluish White share similar housing materials in terms of their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who want RGB lighting effects. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the visual enhancement of the switches when illuminated.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches differ in material, with the Box Navy featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Silent Bluish White utilizing a similar nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This absorption leads to a duller and rounder sound, providing a distinct typing experience for users.
Considering the impact of housing materials on the overall switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings will be divided between the two switches. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing becomes prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing plays a greater role in dictating the sound when a key is released. Hence, while the polycarbonate top housing may yield similar results for both switches, the different nylon bottom housings will contribute to differentiated typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, it is evident that there are significant differences. The Box Navy switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, while the Silent Bluish White has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams. This means that for users who prefer a lighter touch, the Silent Bluish White switch would be a better choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke.
Similarly, when considering the bottom out force, the Box Navy switch is heavier, requiring 90 grams of force, while the Silent Bluish White switch is lighter, requiring only 50 grams of force. This difference in bottom out force means that the Box Navy switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Silent Bluish White switch offers a gentler and softer typing experience.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it impacts the overall typing experience. Some users may prefer a lighter switch as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing strain or fatigue, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more tactile and forceful typing experience may opt for a switch with heavier forces.
In summary, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is heavier in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch. This difference allows users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or stronger push feel. Ultimately, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing needs when selecting a switch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch both have different travel distances. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Bluish White has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, it is worth noting that the Box Navy is slightly longer. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance offered by the Silent Bluish White switch. This shorter distance allows for quicker key presses and potentially improved gaming performance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press may lean towards the Box Navy switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
The Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 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 Navy switch offers a resonant and crunchy auditory experience. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is designed to be as quiet as possible. It produces a muted sound that is softer and quieter compared to regular or clacky switches. This makes the Silent Bluish Whites perfect for those who prefer a more discreet and office-friendly typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience. These switches feature a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The high feedback intensity provides an immersive typing sensation for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch offers a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished tactile experience. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle and approachable typing feel. The tactile feedback is more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it suitable for most users who prefer a middle-ground typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy and TTC Silent Bluish White switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy switches excel in providing a heavy typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound signature, best suited for those who appreciate a more tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish Whites offer a satisfying level of resistance with a quieter and smoother typing experience, making them ideal for office or shared living spaces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and enjoy the sound and tactility of a clicky switch, the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. With a bottom out force of 90 grams, these switches provide a satisfying level of resistance and a strong, sharp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The sound profile of the Box Navy is resonant and crunchy, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards, offering an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience and prioritize a quiet environment, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switches are the way to go. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches offer a precise and comfortable typing experience, with a medium tactile feel and a gentle resistance that stands in a safe middle-ground zone. The Silent Bluish Whites are designed to be as quiet as possible, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switches and TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switches depends on your preference for heaviness, sound signature, and tactility.
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