Kailh Box White V2 vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Flame Red offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 is a clicky switch celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and pronounced audible click,making it a favorite among typists who enjoy the nostalgic, tactile sensation that enhances typing accuracy and provides satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red is a linear switch that stands out not only for its smooth, weighty feel but also for its striking visual appeal, complete with a dazzling light diffuser perfect for backlit or RGB keyboards. While the Box White V2 is ideal for those who revel in a lively, clicky sensation, the Flame Red caters to users seeking a seamless and quiet typing experience without compromising on aesthetics. 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
54g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Flame Red switches feature distinct top housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles and overall user experience. The Box White V2 utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its stiffness. This characteristic translates to a higher-pitched and crisper sound, creating a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency enhances the aesthetics of the switch, particularly when paired with RGB lighting, providing a vibrant glow. In contrast, the TTC Flame Red employs nylon in its top housing, resulting in a sound profile that is deeper and fuller. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a significantly rounder sound. Consequently, these differences in top housing materials contribute to each switch's unique auditory signature, appealing to different preferences among enthusiasts.
Examining the bottom housing of both switches reveals a point of similarity. Both the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Flame Red utilize nylon for their bottom housing, leading to comparable effects on the overall typing experience. As nylon is characterized by its ability to absorb sound, the bottom-out feel and sound produced when pressing down on either switch will provide a muffled yet satisfying response. This commonality means that despite the contrasting materials in the top housing, users will likely experience a fullness in sound and a comfortable typing feel when engaging with the bottom housing of both switches. Thus, while the top houses diverge in sound profile characteristics, the experience at the bottom remains aligned, providing a cohesive typing experience.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Flame Red switches lends itself to an interesting dynamic of sound and feel. Users can expect a penetrating and bright auditory experience with the Box White V2, primarily influenced by its polycarbonate top housing. In comparison, the TTC Flame Red offers a more subdued yet rich acoustic presence, with its nylon top housing delivering a mellow profile. However, due to the shared nylon material in the bottom housing, the base typing experience between the two switches remains notably similar, providing comfort and a fullness in sound across both products. Therefore, individuals who appreciate varying tonal qualities will find distinct benefits in these switches while still enjoying a familiar tactile experience.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a similar feel when it comes to initiating a keystroke. However, the differences lie in their bottom out forces. The Box White V2 has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Flame Red measures slightly higher at 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that while both switches are equally light when it comes to actuation, the Kailh Box White V2 requires less force to press all the way down, making it a better choice for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience over extended sessions. Conversely, for users who appreciate a more substantial keystroke feel, the TTC Flame Red may be more appealing due to its heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Box White V2 the shorter option by 0.4 mm, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times due to its reduced distance. Conversely, the Flame Red switch, with its longer 4 mm travel, offers a more traditional feel that can be preferred by users who appreciate a deeper, more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences; those favoring responsiveness should lean towards the Kailh Box White V2, while those who enjoy a more pronounced depth might find the TTC Flame Red better suited to their typing experience.
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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, the distinct differences are immediately apparent. The Box White V2 is recognized for its crisp tactile feedback accompanied by an audible click, creating a pronounced acoustic experience that many typists find satisfying and engaging. This click sound adds an interactive layer to the typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy audible key presses. On the other hand, the Flame Red switch offers a more neutral sound profile, characterized by a moderate volume that makes it versatile for various environments. While the Flame Red does not possess the pronounced click of the Box White V2, its sound is generally unobtrusive, making it suitable for both quiet office settings and personal use.
Regarding the tactile feel of each switch, the Kailh Box White V2 provides a pronounced tactile feedback that significantly enhances the typing experience. Users often describe it as engaging due to its sharp actuation point, which gives an unmistakable indication of key activation. Conversely, the TTC Flame Red excels in offering a mild and polished typing experience, sitting comfortably in a middle ground between pronounced and subtle. Its smooth key travel, potentially attributable to high-quality materials or factory lubing, enables effortless typing without the harshness that stiffer switches might impose. This finish results in a pleasant experience, making it user-friendly for typists at any skill level.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 and TTC Flame Red switches represent two distinct approaches to mechanical keyboard switches, particularly in terms of sound and feel. The Box White V2 appeals to those seeking auditory feedback and engaging tactile sensations, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy the clicky aspect of keyboards. In contrast, the Flame Red switch caters to users who prefer a smoother, linear experience without the audible distractions of clicks. Although these switches cater to different preferences, both can be excellent choices depending on the user's needs and typing style, allowing for a unique personal touch when customizing a keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch will ultimately depend on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a tactile experience with an audible click that provides significant feedback for each keystroke, the Box White V2 is an excellent option, especially if you appreciate a lighter actuation force of 50 grams. This switch is ideal for typists who revel in the classic sound and feel of clicky switches, making it perfect for writing, programming, or tasks where audible confirmation of keystrokes adds to the experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother typing action with a more subdued sound profile that is still enjoyable, the TTC Flame Red linear switch might be the better choice. With a bottom-out force of 54 grams, it offers a balanced feel that caters well to both beginner and experienced users, making it suitable for a wide range of environments, whether at work or during casual gaming. Its eye-catching light diffuser also makes it a great option if you prefer RGB backlighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your keyboard setup. Therefore, consider your preferences for sound, feel, and visual appeal when deciding between the two switches, as both have unique qualities that cater to different types of keyboard users.
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