Kailh Box White V2 vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between various options, each offering a unique typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 switch stands out with its crisp tactile feedback and signature audible click, making it an ideal choice for typists who enjoy a more engaging and stimulating keystroke. This clicky switch is particularly favored by those who thrive on the satisfying sound and feel of each press, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro offers a more subtle, nuanced tactile feedback with its gentle bump and low-pitched sound. This switch is perfect for users who prefer an understated experience, allowing for immersive typing sessions with minimal distraction thanks to its quiet operation. With the Kailh Box White V2 emphasizing engaging sound and tactile sensation, and the TTC Gold Brown Pro focusing on a smooth and discreet experience, both switches have distinct advantages depending on personal preference. 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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Gold Brown Pro, one notable similarity is in their top housing, which is made from polycarbonate. Both switches benefit from the use of this stiff plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also contributes to an aesthetically pleasing design, especially when RGB lighting is involved. As a result, users can expect similar auditory characteristics from both switches, enhancing their overall typing experience with bright and resonant sounds.
However, the bottom housing presents a contrasting aspect of these switches, as both the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Gold Brown Pro utilize nylon. This classic material generates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, while the top housings provide clarity and brightness, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a richer and rounder output. This divergent quality allows users to appreciate both the tactile feedback and the acoustic profile of each switch, with the nylon offering a warm contrast to the polycarbonate's crispness.
In essence, despite the overlap in materials for the top housing, the integrated combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both switches allows for a unique sound experience. Each switch effectively showcases the strengths of its materials: the polycarbonate upper elevates the clarity of sound, while the nylon bottom delivers a comforting depth. When pressed, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Kailh Box White V2 collectively create a balanced sound signature, allowing keyboard enthusiasts to enjoy an engaging and satisfying typing experience that harmonizes both brighter and warmer tonal qualities.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, we find that both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means they require the same amount of pressure to register a keystroke. This similarity ensures that users will experience an equally responsive typing experience with both switches, suitable for prolonging typing sessions without excessive strain. However, the bottom out force differs significantly between the two. The Box White V2 has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it slightly heavier and providing a more substantial feel when fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Gold Brown Pro is unspecified, making it difficult to assess its performance in that regard. While the Box White V2 offers a decisive feedback upon bottoming out, the unknown bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro leaves some uncertainty. Therefore, for users who prefer a lighter, more consistent typing experience, the Kailh Box White V2 would be the better option, while those seeking an unclear but potentially softer response may lean towards the TTC Gold Brown Pro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, the differences become evident, with the Box White V2 measuring 3.6 mm and the Gold Brown Pro at 3.8 mm. The Box White V2 is the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that some gamers might prefer for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, offering a deeper feedback that doesn't feel as abrupt. If you're seeking a blend of responsiveness and depth, understanding these distances can help you make a more informed choice 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 TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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, Kailh Box White V2 switches are characterized by their sharp, distinct click, producing a clear, audible feedback that typists often enjoy. This click not only serves as a satisfying confirmation of the keypress but also creates an engaging auditory experience for users who appreciate sound in their typing. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro emphasizes a more subdued and refined sound profile. Described as thocky and low-pitched, this switch generates a deep and less intrusive tonal quality, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the background without overwhelming the user's auditory senses. Therefore, while both switches will provide a pleasurable sound experience, those preferring robust auditory feedback will gravitate towards the Box White V2, while users who desire a quieter typing environment with a gentle sound will favor the Gold Brown Pro.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 is notable for its pronounced tactile bump and click, offering a clear resistance that can enhance typing precision and satisfaction. However, the TTC Gold Brown Pro provides a vastly different tactile experience. It is polished and silky, which translates to a smooth, refined journey with each keystroke. The Gold Brown Pro’s tactile feedback is much more subtle and mild, characterized by a gentle bump that is backed by a smooth key travel, allowing for a comfortable typing session without aggressive interruption. For typists who thrive on robust tactile sensations, the Box White V2 would be ideal, whereas those looking for a nuanced yet comfortable typing feel would likely find the TTC Gold Brown Pro more appealing.
In summary, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding auditory and tactile experiences. The Box White V2 excels in delivering a crisp, audible click and a more pronounced tactile response, making it suitable for those who thrive on clear feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro offers a more serene and refined experience with its subtle sound and silky smooth feel, perfect for users who appreciate a quieter environment. Understanding these differences will assist newcomers in making a choice that aligns with their typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a lively typing experience with pronounced feedback and the satisfaction of an audible click, the Box White V2 is the ideal choice for you. Its crisp click response can enhance your typing, giving you that nostalgic feel of classic typewriters while making your keystrokes satisfying and lively. This switch is better suited for individual settings or at home, where you can fully appreciate its character without disturbing others. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and subtle typing experience that allows you to concentrate without distractions, the TTC Gold Brown Pro would be the better fit. With its gentle tactile bump and low sound profile, this switch caters to those who are looking for a polished and silky feel that is perfect for long typing sessions, especially in shared or professional environments where quiet keystrokes are essential. Ultimately, your decision should reflect not just how you type but also where you choose to type, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience aligns perfectly with your needs.
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