Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron CM offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Box White V2 is celebrated for its clicky nature, providing users with crisp tactile feedback and an audible click that enhances typing precision and satisfaction. This makes it an ideal choice for typists who thrive on auditory and tactile cues, often enjoying the nostalgic sound of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron CM stands apart with its unique nylon housing, delivering a rich, deep sound signature and an effortlessly smooth typing sensation, thanks to its expertly crafted factory lube and dual-staged spring design. This results in a bouncy and fluid experience that's perfect for those who prefer a quieter operation and a more serene typing environment. Both switches have their unique attributes, catering to different user needs and preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron CM switches exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly shapes their acoustic profiles. The Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that resonates clearly. This characteristic is particularly advantageous for those who favor RGB lighting effects, as the transparent polycarbonate allows light to diffuse beautifully through the switch, enhancing the aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Gateron CM utilizes a nylon top housing, a material attributed to producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. This difference in materials not only influences the auditory experience but also affects the overall feel of the switch during operation, where the nylon's softer nature leads to a subtler typing sound, providing a contrasting tactile experience for the user.
Delving into the bottom housing, both the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron CM utilize nylon, which is renowned for its sound-absorbing qualities. This uniformity in bottom housing material creates similarities in the tactile feedback and auditory experience of the switches when they bottom out. The use of nylon in both switches results in a duller, rounder sound that resonates less harshly compared to more rigid materials. Consequently, while the top housings diverge in terms of their sound profiles due to differing materials, the influence of nylon in the bottom housing serves to unify the auditory characteristics during the actuation of both switches, ensuring that users will have a somewhat similar experience in terms of sound once the key is pressed down.
Overall, while the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron CM switches differ in their top housing materials with specific impacts on sound, both switches share a commonality in their nylon bottom housing. This parallel aspect allows them to produce a cohesive auditory experience during bottoming out, even as the top housings contribute contrasting sound profiles. As a result, users can expect a distinct sound upon key release depending on their choice of switch, yet maintain a consistently softer, fuller sound during the key press itself. Ultimately, this intricate combination of materials in both the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron CM illustrates how different elements can be interwoven to create a unique yet comparable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions, as it requires less effort to activate. In contrast, the Gateron CM switch features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger typing experience. This difference in weight allows the Box White V2 to cater to users looking for a lighter switch for prolonged use, while the Gateron CM appeals to individuals who enjoy the tactile feedback of a heavier switch. Thus, if you're seeking a lightweight option for extensive use, the Kailh Box White V2 is preferable, while the Gateron CM might be better for those who favor a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron CM linear switch both share the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that users will experience a similar keypress length when using either switch. This equal travel distance means that both switches will provide a comparable tactile experience, allowing for consistent key actuation in terms of distance. Whether you prefer the clicky feedback of the Box White V2 or the smoothness of the Gateron CM, the travel distance of 3.6 mm ensures that the fundamental travel feel remains the same between these two switches.
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 CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 White V2 switch stands out with its signature crisp, tactile feedback coupled with an audible click that many find satisfying. This clicky characteristic creates a distinct auditory cue that signals a successful key press, making it a favorite among typists who appreciate auditory stimulation while typing. In contrast, the Gateron CM linear switch delivers a deeper, richer sound profile thanks to its full nylon housing. Described as having a "bassy" and "thocky" character, the CM switches produce a lower frequency sound that evokes the satisfying depth akin to a soft thud when pressed. This low-pitched tone contributes to a more immersive typing experience, especially on the right board and with suitable keycaps, enhancing the overall auditory pleasure.
In terms of the feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switches offer a definitive tactile experience but may not provide the same smoothness as the Gateron CM linear switches. The CM switches are lauded for their buttery, polished, and creamy feel, all thanks to their impeccable factory lubing and unique build. With a lengthened, dual-staged spring, these switches provide a bouncy typing experience that feels fluid and effortless under the fingers. This sensation can often feel frictionless, as the design minimizes resistance while typing. While the Box White V2 may appeal to those seeking the tactile feedback of a clicky switch, the CM linear's refined feel caters to users looking for a more seamless experience.
In conclusion, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron CM switches will ultimately depend on your preference for sound and feel. If you cherish the tactile feedback and clicky sound, the Box White V2 will deliver that classic mechanical keyboard experience. However, if you prioritize smoothness and a deeper, richer sound profile, the Gateron CM linear switches will provide a luxurious typing experience characterized by their buttery and polished feel. Both switches offer unique qualities, ensuring that whether you lean toward tactile or linear, you can achieve an enjoyable typing atmosphere.
Conclusion
To sum up, both the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron CM linear switches offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you enjoy a light touch with crisp tactile feedback and an audible click sound, then the Box White V2 is likely the better choice for you. Its 50-gram actuation force makes it particularly appealing for typing enthusiasts who appreciate a satisfying click that provides clear confirmation of key presses. This makes it ideal for users who do a lot of typing, such as writers or programmers, who want to enhance their typing experience with a lively and engaging sound profile. In contrast, if you prefer a smoother, more subdued typing experience with a deeper sound that's both rich and bassy, the Gateron CM is the way to go. Its medium-heavy 63.5-gram force and polished, buttery feel offer a luxurious typing sensation that glides effortlessly, making it an excellent choice for gamers or anyone who spends long hours at their keyboard but desires a more understated auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should align with the tactile and auditory feedback you find most enjoyable—whether you lean towards the energetic click of the Box White V2 or the smooth, thocky depth of the Gateron CM.
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