Kailh Box White V2 vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the tactile precision of clicky switches like the Kailh Box White V2 and the smooth, flowing experience offered by linear switches such as the KTT Darling. The Box White V2 is celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, making it an ideal choice for typists who enjoy a pronounced response in their keystrokes and a distinct auditory cue that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Darling is characterized by its chewy, substantial feel and pronounced bounciness, which provides a responsive and smooth typing experience that many gamers and casual users alike appreciate. While the Darling's high-pitched sound can add an engaging layer of feedback, those who prefer the definitive "click" of the Box White V2 may find themselves gravitating towards that option for a more robust tactile response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Darling switches, an intriguing similarity emerges. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate material for their top housing, which contributes to a consistent auditory experience. This shared characteristic results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is universally appreciated by users who seek clarity in their typing experience. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, allows for a more pronounced resonance, enhancing the overall sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who incorporate RGB lighting in their keyboard setups, as it allows the light to pass through beautifully.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both the Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Darling are made from nylon, a classic material known for its unique sonic properties. Nylon's softer nature absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that provides a comforting auditory feedback while typing. This combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing sets these switches apart from others that use uniform materials throughout. Consequently, when the switch is pressed down, users experience the rounder, muted sound from the nylon bottom, while the crisper sound signature from the polycarbonate top becomes pronounced upon release.
Even though both the Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Darling switches employ the same materials in their respective housing configurations, the impact of these materials is particularly noteworthy. The polycarbonate top housing brings brightness and clarity to the key release sound, whereas the nylon bottom housing contributes to a rich, muted bottom-out sound and feel. This insight emphasizes the significance of housing materials in switch design and underscores how their interaction influences user experience. Overall, both switches manifest similar results in sound and feel due to their strategic use of polycarbonate and nylon, allowing users to appreciate their unique benefits and harmonizing auditory effects.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, both exhibit an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, the differences emerge in their bottom out forces: the Box White V2 has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Darling has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams. This makes the Box White V2 the lighter option overall, which may be more desirable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing feel, particularly during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Conversely, the KTT Darling, with its heavier bottom out force, may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial push, offering a tactile feedback that some typists and gamers find satisfying. In summary, while both switches share the same actuation force, the Box White V2's lighter bottom out makes it a better choice for those who favor ease and comfort, while the KTT Darling’s slightly heavier bottom out could attract users seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, we find that the Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Darling has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Kailh Box White V2 the longer of the two switches, providing a bit more depth in key presses, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback. In contrast, the KTT Darling, with its shorter travel distance, may cater to gamers seeking faster response times and quicker actuation, although some users may find such a short distance too abrupt for their liking. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the KTT Darling would be the better choice, while those who appreciate a heartier depth in their keystrokes might opt for the Kailh Box White V2.
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 KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 is celebrated for its crisp and sharp audible click, which defines the character of clicky switches. The pronounced click adds a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists and gamers crave. In contrast, the KTT Darling delivers a distinct auditory experience characterized by a clacky and resonant sound as you type. The Darling’s sound is sharp and percussive, producing a high-pitched tone when bottoming out, leading to an engaging, immersive typing experience. While both can offer enjoyable sounds, the Box White V2's clickiness contrasts with the more resonant and clacky nature of the Darling.
Regarding feel, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a tactile feedback that is crisp and defined, giving a clear indication of actuation. The tactile bump is noticeable, providing a satisfying response with every keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Darling is known for its bouncy feel, giving the sensation of a soft "sinking" followed by a springy rebound. This creates a more fluid typing experience that feels smooth and responsive, appealing to those who prefer a softer touch without any tactile bumps.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Darling offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Box White V2 caters to those who enjoy the precision and feedback of clicky switches, while the Darling is ideal for users who favor a more linear, bouncy sensation with an engaging auditory profile. Ultimately, choosing between them will come down to whether you prioritize clicky feedback or a smoother, more buoyant feel in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Darling switches will largely depend on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you enjoy a pronounced clicky feedback with each keystroke, the Box White V2 is an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate crisp tactile sensations and a lighter bottom-out force. This switch caters well to typists who thrive on auditory feedback and crave an engaging, lively typing experience, ideal for those who appreciate the rhythm of each click while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more linear feel while still enjoying auditory feedback, the KTT Darling will likely be more up your alley. With its medium-light bottom-out force and chewy, bouncy response, it provides a satisfying typing experience that’s both substantial and immersive. This switch is perfect for users who enjoy a bit of springiness in their keypresses and favor a clean, resonant sound profile without the distraction of a sharp click. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a tactile and clicky feedback (Box White V2) or a smooth and bouncy experience (KTT Darling), aligning with your personal typing style and sound preferences.
Mentioned in this article
