Kailh Box White V2 vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Gold Silver offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its clicky nature, providing users with crisp tactile feedback and an audible click that enhances the typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a satisfying auditory and tactile response. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch is a linear option that shines with its rapid responsiveness and smooth actuation, resulting in a fluid keystroke that is both quick and silent. Its design allows for a solid bottom-out feel, delivering a sense of closure that some typists find rewarding. While the Box White V2 may appeal to those who appreciate a pronounced click and tactile feedback, the Gold Silver is perfect for users seeking speed and smoothness without the distraction of sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that will suit your needs.
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
1.40 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
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
The Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Gold Silver switches share a commonality in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, which contributes to their sound profiles in similar ways. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a stiff plastic known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound signature. This material's translucency not only enhances the aesthetic appeal when RGB lighting is involved but also allows the switches to resonate clearly, making them suitable for vibrant and customizable keyboard builds. Because both switches employ the same material for their top housings, users can expect comparable acoustic outcomes, characterized by clarity and brightness, when pressing these switches, particularly when released.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Gold Silver are both crafted from nylon, which brings a distinctly different auditory quality into the mix. Nylon is recognized for its softer characteristic, which effectively dampens sound and results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This absorption of sound is particularly evident during typing, where the bottom-out sound is noticeably muted compared to switches with harder plastic housings. Thus, while the top housings of both switches create a crisp sound when the key is released, the nylon bottom housing's softer nature provides a rounded auditory experience upon pressing down the key. This division enhances the overall sound experience of both switches, balancing the clarity from the polycarbonate top with the richness from the nylon bottom.
Ultimately, while the Kailh Box White V2 and TTC Gold Silver switches have different materials for their bottom housings, their comparable top housing materials lead to similar results in terms of sound clarity and resonance. Users will experience a consistent high-pitched sound profile when releasing both switches, thanks to the polycarbonate material. However, when pressed down, the differences in the bottom housing materials become evident, with the nylon contributing a significantly fuller and softer sound to both switches. Thus, the overall typing experience on each switch highlights the interplay of materials; the resulting audio feedback uniquely captures the advantages of both polycarbonate and nylon.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, both exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent and light typing experience that may appeal to those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the Box White V2 has a measurable bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it requires a bit more force to fully press the key down. In contrast, the bottom out force of the Gold Silver is unknown, leaving a gap in understanding its complete tactile feedback. Consequently, while both switches acknowledge a similar actuation force, the Kailh Box White V2 is heavier at the bottom out phase. This difference in bottom out force might make the Box White V2 feel more substantial during use, appealing to typists who appreciate a stronger push feel, while the TTC Gold Silver's performance in this area remains uncertain.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Silver linear switch measures slightly less at 3.5 mm. This makes the Box White V2 the longer of the two switches, which may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced feedback during key presses. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Gold Silver switch can provide a quicker response time, catering to gamers who favor faster actuation for improved performance. While both options are relatively close, the difference could influence user preference based on their typing style—those who enjoy more substantial travel might lean towards the Box White V2, whereas those seeking swift responses might prefer the Gold Silver.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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, the Kailh Box White V2 switches are characterized by their distinct, crisp click that provides a pronounced auditory feedback with every keystroke. This clicky sound is designed to enhance the typing experience, making it satisfying for those who enjoy an audible confirmation of their actions. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver switches produce a thocky, low-pitched sound profile that is bass-heavy and mellow, resulting in a deep and satisfying tone when the key is pressed and released. While the Gold Silver embraces a more resonant sound signature, its overall neutrality makes it versatile enough for various use cases, whether at home or in an office environment.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switches are known for their crisp tactile feedback, though the specifics about their smoothness and resistance are less defined. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switches excel in delivering a polished and silky typing experience, thanks to their refined finish and fluid key travel. They provide a mild and subtle resistance that enhances typing comfort, making them approachable for a broad range of typists. The smoothness of these switches minimizes friction, ensuring that each keystroke feels seamless and effortless, contrasting with the more tactile feel of the Box White V2.
Overall, the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switches and TTC Gold Silver linear switches cater to different preferences. The Box White V2 is ideal for those who appreciate the clarity and engagement of a clicky sound, while the Gold Silver offers a smooth, responsive experience with a satisfying thocky sound. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will come down to personal preference regarding the auditory feedback and tactile sensation you desire, but both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience in their respective domains.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch primarily hinges on your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use them. If you enjoy tactile feedback and appreciate the auditory experience of clicky switches, the Box White V2 is an excellent option. Its 50-gram bottom-out force provides a light resistance that many find satisfying for both typing and gaming. The crisp clicks and feedback of the Box White V2 can enhance the joy of each keystroke, especially in a more private setting where the sound can be fully appreciated. On the other hand, if you prefer rapid responsiveness and smooth key travel, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch stands out with its polished and silky feel. Although it lacks a specified bottom-out force, its design ensures a swift actuation and a thocky sound that remains approachable for various settings, making it suitable for both home and office use. Therefore, consider your typing style, the importance of sound, and the context in which you'll be using your keyboard to decide which switch best fits your needs.
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