Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between tactile clicky options and smooth linear designs, exemplified by the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches. The Kailh Box White V2 is lauded for its crisp tactile feedback and satisfying click sound, making it an ideal choice for typists who enjoy auditory and physical cues with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, thanks to their innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, which minimizes resistance and wobble. While the Box White V2 caters to those who seek a snappy and engaging typing experience, the CAP Anniversary is perfect for users who prioritize fluid keystrokes and a polished feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches, both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes significantly to their sound profiles. The polycarbonate material in both switches results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is attributable to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the auditory feedback. Furthermore, this clear housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through effectively, making both switches particularly appealing for users who want a vibrant visual experience alongside dynamic acoustic properties.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, which introduces a different sound profile to the overall switch experience. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound, as it absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder auditory characteristic during typing. As both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron CAP Anniversary use nylon for the bottom housing, they share similar deep sound qualities that distinguish their tactile feedback from those with stiffer bottom housings.
The combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in both the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron CAP Anniversary means that users can expect a balanced auditory feedback experience. While the polycarbonate top emphasizes clarity and sharpness in sound release, the nylon bottom mitigates that with a fuller, resonant sound upon bottoming out. As a result, despite being distinct in their materials, the two switches provide complementing sound profiles that cater to a range of preferences, maintaining consistency in both clarity and depth. This harmonious blend underscores the versatility and appeal of each switch within the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Box White V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which caters well to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience ideal for long hours of work or gaming. In contrast, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch has a stronger actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile sensation for those who favor a firmer keystroke. Consequently, the Kailh Box White V2 is the lighter option, making it suitable for extended use without fatigue, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary offers a more robust feel suitable for typists who enjoy a noticeable resistance. Hence, users seeking a lighter switch should gravitate towards the Box White V2, while those preferring a heavier switch might find the Gateron CAP Anniversary more appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, there is a distinct difference: the Box White V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the CAP Anniversary measures 4.0 mm. This means that the Box White V2 provides a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for gamers who prefer quicker key presses. In contrast, the longer 4.0 mm travel distance of the CAP Anniversary switch may offer a more substantial feel while typing, appealing to those who enjoy a deeper keypress experience. Therefore, if you're seeking faster response times and a more abrupt feel, the Kailh Box White V2 would be the preferable choice, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary caters to those who appreciate a more traditional typing depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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
The Kailh Box White V2 switch is notable for its distinct audible click, which provides a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find rewarding. This click sound is clear and pronounced, making it a preferred option for those who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. The sound itself can invoke a sense of nostalgia for mechanical typewriters and adds an extra layer of feedback that signals to the user that the keystroke has been registered. In contrast, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch offers a silent typing experience, focusing primarily on the smoothness of the keystrokes rather than sound. While the specifics of its sound profile are not detailed, it's common for linear switches to produce less prominent audio cues compared to clicky counterparts, resulting in a quieter typing environment, which can be advantageous in shared spaces.
In terms of feel, the Box White V2 provides a tactile sensation with each keystroke alongside its click, giving a clear indication when the switch actuates. This tactile bump can enhance typing accuracy and speed as it sends feedback to the fingers without needing to bottom out the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches excel in their smooth feel, characterized by descriptors like "snappy," "creamy," and "polished." This means users can expect snappy responsiveness that feels vibrant during typing, complemented by a delightful creamy smoothness that allows fingers to glide effortlessly from key to key. The polished finish minimizes friction, contributing to a refined and enjoyable typing experience. Thus, while the Kailh Box White V2 emphasizes tactile feedback and sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary focuses on fluidity and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron CAP Anniversary switches cater to different preferences in keyboard experience. If you appreciate clear auditory feedback and tactile sensation, the Box White V2 would be a compelling choice. Conversely, if you prioritize smoothness and a quieter typing environment, the Gateron CAP Anniversary excels in that regard. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, with both options offering unique and enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, your personal preferences and intended use will greatly influence your choice. If you enjoy an auditory and tactile typing experience, the Box White V2 is ideal, thanks to its lighter 50-gram bottom-out force, crisp feedback, and pleasing click sound. This makes it a fantastic option for typists and gamers who appreciate a more engaging interaction with their keyboard and often type or game in quieter environments where audible clicks can be satisfying yet not distracting. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more stable experience without the clicks, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch would be the better option. Its medium-heavy 65-gram bottom-out force, combined with the novel CAP structure that enhances smoothness and reduces wobble, caters well to those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes, such as fast-paced gamers or people who type for extended periods. In essence, your decision should align with whether you value the tactile and auditory feedback of a clicky switch or the silky smoothness and stability of a linear switch.
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