Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron Glory Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Glory Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference for feel and sound, and two popular options embody this divergence: the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Glory Red. The Kailh Box White V2 switches are characterized by their clicky response, offering crisp tactile feedback and an audible click that can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a traditional, mechanical feel. This makes them an ideal choice for typists who appreciate auditory confirmation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red switches provide a linear experience, celebrated for their smooth keystroke and satisfying travel distance, appealing to gamers and typists who prefer a discreet and fluid typing motion without the noise of a click. Each switch offers unique benefits—whether it's the tactile excitement of the Box White V2 or the seamless flow of the Glory Red. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Glory Red switches showcase distinct material choices in their top housings, which significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for producing a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffer composition. This stiffness facilitates a clear and resonant sound, making it an apt choice for enthusiasts who appreciate the auditory feedback during typing. Additionally, the translucence of polycarbonate allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of keyboards equipped with these switches. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red utilizes a nylon top housing, a material favored for its ability to generate a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softer nature. The nylon's sound-absorbing qualities produce a more muted auditory experience, catering to users who prefer a less pronounced click or pop when typing.
Both switches, however, employ nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a shared characteristic that impacts the overall sound experience when bottoming out. With the Gateron Glory Red, the nylon bottom housing adds to the mellow sound signature, ensuring that the keystroke is not only tactile but also quieter, effectively absorbing much of the impact noise produced during typing. The Box White V2’s nylon bottom works similarly to create a fuller sound profile, complementing the sharper sound of its polycarbonate top. Although the top housings are different in material and resultant acoustic properties, the combination of both housing materials leads to somewhat similar typing experiences when pressing down on the key switches.
Ultimately, the mixed material design of each switch creates a unique interplay between sound and feel. For the Kailh Box White V2, the interplay of the sharp polycarbonate top and the softer nylon bottom allows for a resolved typing experience that is both expressive and punchy. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red's entirely nylon construction offers an overall smoother and quieter experience. Thus, while the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Glory Red may diverge in the sound produced on initial keystrokes due to their differing top materials, they share similarities in the feel and acoustic properties influenced by their nylon bottoms, appealing to a range of user preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch exhibit some similarities in their actuation forces but differ in their bottom-out forces. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the Box White V2 has a bottom-out force of 50 grams, indicating that it requires slightly more strength to press all the way down, providing a more substantial feel at the end of the keystroke. In contrast, the Glory Red lacks a specified bottom-out force, leaving that detail unknown. Thus, while both switches can deliver a similar actuation experience, the Kailh Box White V2 is the heavier option overall due to its defined bottom-out force, whereas the Gateron Glory Red's performance in that aspect remains unclear.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this regard. Since both switches share the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key press depth and tactile feedback when using either switch. This consistency in travel distance means that regardless of the clicky nature of the Box White V2 or the smoothness of the Glory Red, both will provide a uniform experience in how far down the key needs to be pressed.
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 Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White V2 switch stands out with its pronounced audible click that resonates with a crisp quality, making it instantly recognizable. This click adds an engaging auditory experience that many typists and gamers find satisfying and motivating. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red switch is designed to be quieter, offering a smooth keystroke devoid of any loud auditory feedback, which is ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing sound. This discrepancy means that while both switches provide a unique sound profile, they cater to different preferences, with the Box White V2 appealing to users who enjoy auditory cues and the Glory Red accommodating those who favor discretion.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switch delivers a tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience, making each keystroke distinctly satisfying due to its crisp engagement point. Users often appreciate the tactile bump paired with the click, as it adds a layer of responsiveness that's particularly beneficial for touch typists. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red switch is characterized by its linear feel, offering a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience throughout the entire travel distance. It requires minimal resistance, making it a favorite for gamers and users who prioritize swift, fluid movements without the interruption of tactile sensations. Thus, the feel of these switches caters to different typing styles, with the Box White V2 appealing to those who enjoy tactile feedback, while the Glory Red targets those who prefer a seamless press.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Glory Red switches provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences suited to different user preferences. The Box White V2 impresses with its crisp click and tactile feedback, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a lively typing dynamic. Meanwhile, the Glory Red’s smooth and quiet operation caters to users seeking a more subdued experience. Whether your priority is to hear a satisfying click or to enjoy a fluid, linear feel, both switches excel within their realms, allowing users to select based on personal typing style and sound preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and desired experience. If you appreciate audible feedback and enjoy the tactile sensation while typing, the Kailh Box White V2 is likely the better fit for you. Its crisp click sound and responsive tactile bump can enhance your typing efficiency, especially if you spend long hours typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without the noise of clicks, the Gateron Glory Red is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more subdued and fluid typing experience. Its lighter feel and pleasing travel distance make it a favorite for rapid key presses, especially in gaming contexts where quick actions are paramount. Ultimately, consider how sound and feedback play a role in your keyboard experience, and select the switch that aligns with your personal typing style and environment.
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