Kailh Box White V2 vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Gold Brown can significantly impact your typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its distinct clicky nature, offering crisp tactile feedback combined with an audible click that many typists find satisfying and energizing. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced response while typing, making it a popular choice among programmers and writers alike who thrive on auditory cues. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown switches embody a more balanced experience. With a gentle tactile bump and a moderate weightiness, they provide enough feedback to keep users engaged without the loudness associated with clicky switches. Their rounded sound profile makes them an excellent choice for quieter environments or for those who prefer a smoother, more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches hinges on your personal preferences for auditory feedback and tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When it comes to the housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Gold Brown switches, it’s interesting to note that both utilize the same type of materials for their top and bottom housings. Both switches feature polycarbonate for the top housing, which is instrumental in creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The inherent characteristics of polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, lend themselves to a clear and resonant sound, enhancing the auditory experience when typing. Additionally, both switches’ use of a translucent polycarbonate top makes them visually appealing, particularly when paired with RGB lighting, allowing the colors to shine through and create an aesthetically pleasing effect.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both the Box White V2 and Gold Brown switches are made of nylon. This choice leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer material properties. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than stiffer materials like polycarbonate, resulting in a more subdued and rounded auditory feedback when typing. Consequently, while both switches employ the same materials, the differing elastic properties of the bottom and top housings contribute uniquely to the overall sound experience. The deep resonance offered by the nylon bottom complements the crisp tones from the polycarbonate top, synergizing well to provide a balanced auditory experience.
Due to this combination of materials, users can anticipate some similar results in terms of sound profiles across both switch types. While the Kailh Box White V2 might focus more on clarity with its stiffer polycarbonate top, the TTC Gold Brown will provide a more rounded sound due to its nylon bottom housing. Nevertheless, the commonality between them in terms of the materials used allows enthusiasts to enjoy close experiences when typing. The interplay between the soft nylon bottom and hard polycarbonate top ensures that the qualities each material brings to the table both enhances their unique sound profiles while simultaneously producing coherent and rich auditory results, making both switches appealing to different preferences of sound and feel.
Weight
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch present contrasting characteristics in terms of 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 those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience over extended periods. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, catering to users who desire a more substantial push feel while typing. This difference means that typists or gamers seeking a lighter switch for prolonged use might gravitate towards the Box White V2, whereas those who enjoy a firmer response might opt for the Gold Brown. Overall, while one switch promotes ease of use with its lower force values, the other provides a more robust tactile feedback, appealing to different preferences among users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, a clear difference emerges. The Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Gold Brown, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users seeking a more responsive experience may prefer the Kailh Box White V2, as its shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper feel, which might be favored by those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience. Consequently, if you're leaning towards a switch that offers faster response times, the Box White V2 would be the better choice, while the Gold Brown caters to those who enjoy a more substantial, traditional typing feel.
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 Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 switches produce a distinct and sharp audible click that stands out during typing. This click sound is not just a byproduct of the switch's design; it serves to enhance the tactile nature of the switch, providing both auditory and physical confirmation of key actuation. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown switches offer a more subdued and rounded sound profile. While they generate a gentle bump, the sound is significantly softer when compared to the Box White V2, making them more suitable for environments where noise levels need to be kept in check. This difference in sound dynamics showcases the varied auditory experiences each switch brings to the table.
When considering feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switches are engineered to provide a pronounced tactile feedback that is both engaging and satisfying, making them ideal for typists who enjoy clear actuation cues. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown switches embody a more balanced tactile experience, presenting a mild yet pleasing bump during key presses. This makes the Gold Brown switches approachable for a wide range of users, as they deliver a buttery-smooth keystroke that feels refined and effortless. The tactile nature of the Gold Brown strikes a median, offering enough feedback without overwhelming the user, whereas the Box White V2 excels in delivering an accentuated tactile and auditory experience.
In conclusion, both switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The Kailh Box White V2 offers a louder click and pronounced tactile feedback, perfect for those who enjoy a more responsive typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown provides a softer sound with a balanced tactile feel suitable for various environments. While each switch has its unique attributes, both can deliver satisfying typing experiences depending on the user’s preferences, whether it be the crisp clicks of the Box White V2 or the smooth and mild sensations of the Gold Brown. Making the choice between them ultimately boils down to whether one prioritizes auditory feedback and pronounced tactility or a quieter and more balanced typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a light, responsive feel coupled with pronounced auditory feedback, the Kailh Box White V2 is an excellent choice. Its lower actuation force makes it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming, with the satisfying click providing a tactile experience that can enhance your enjoyment. However, if you prefer a more subdued, balanced typing experience that is comfortable for long sessions—whether for work or casual use—the TTC Gold Brown switch is preferable. Its medium weight and subtle bump offer a mild yet satisfying experience, making it suitable for both novice typists and experienced users alike. With a more neutral sound profile, the Gold Brown can also be a better fit for quieter environments where minimizing disturbance is important. Ultimately, your choice should align with how you intend to use your keyboard, the importance of feedback and sound, and how much you value a tactile experience versus a clicky one.
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