Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron Ink Black V2

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Ink Black V2 represent two distinct approaches to typing experiences. The Box White V2 is celebrated for its clicky nature, offering users a satisfying tactile feedback alongside a distinctive audible click that many typists find both enjoyable and rewarding. This switch is often preferred by those who appreciate the rhythmic sound of their keystrokes and enjoy a more engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that excels in providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or click, making it an ideal choice for gamers and writers seeking a quieter and more fluid typing experience. While the Box White V2 shines in terms of auditory and tactile feedback, the Ink Black V2 is favored for its seamless action and soft landing. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Ink Black V2 switches exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and transparent nature. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, starkly suited for those who prefer a resonant keypress experience. On the other hand, the INK blend upper housing of the Ink Black V2 produces a similarly high-pitched sound, albeit described as being finely pointed without the extreme sharpness characteristic of polycarbonate. While both switches produce higher frequencies, the Box White V2's sound tends to be more pronounced due to polycarbonate's sound-reflective properties, granting it a more vivid auditory presence.

Contrasting the top housings, the Kailh Box White V2 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This design dampens sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a rounder auditory experience. In comparison, the Gateron Ink Black V2 also employs a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which maintains a high-pitched, yet less aggressive sound profile. While both switches return thinner sounds when bottomed out, the nylon housing of the Box White V2 will enhance the depth of the overall keypress, creating a rich tonal balance between the sharpness of the top and the fullness of the bottom. Meanwhile, the INK blend's properties allow the Ink Black V2 to retain a clacky texture for auditory feedback, resulting in a distinct typing experience.

Ultimately, the differences in the sound and feel of these switches are rooted in the combination of their housing materials. The Kailh Box White V2, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, provides a dynamic contrast between clarity and fullness, allowing typists to enjoy an engaging mix of sound profiles. Meanwhile, the Gateron Ink Black V2's uniform INK blend material promotes consistent higher-pitched sounds across both the top and bottom housings. Despite the variances in individual components, users of both switches can expect an engaging auditory experience, with the Kailh Box White V2 emphasizing sharper clarity and resonance, while the Ink Black V2 delivers a satisfying clack that remains harmonious within its own distinct soundscape.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch with the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter switch that is suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions without excessive fatigue. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience favored by those who prefer a stronger push. Consequently, those who appreciate tactile feedback might gravitate towards the Ink Black V2, while those looking for comfort during extended use would likely prefer the lighter Kailh Box White V2. Thus, the Box White V2 is lighter overall, whereas the Ink Black V2 is heavier, offering distinct mechanical experiences based on individual preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, the differences are quite notable. The Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Ink Black V2, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you prefer a more responsive feel during gameplay, the Kailh Box White V2 may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, offers a deeper feel, which may be more suited for those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that strikes a balance between quick response and a satisfying depth, you would have to choose based on these travel distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Kailh Box White V2 is characterized by a sharp and crisp click that provides clear auditory feedback with each keystroke. This clicky sound is designed to be pronounced and satisfying, enhancing the typing experience for those who appreciate audible cues. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 offers a more subdued acoustic signature, featuring a low-pitched, bassy sound that delivers a deeper and richer tone. Additionally, these switches have a characteristic chirp, adding a unique dimension to their auditory feedback. While the Box White V2 is all about that distinct click, the Ink Black V2 presents a mellower sound profile, allowing for a quieter typing experience without the hallmark sharpness of a clicky switch.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 provides a tactile sensation with each press, allowing typists to receive a robust feedback that enhances their engagement with the keyboard. Although details on the Box White V2's exact feel are not specified, its clicky nature suggests a more pronounced tactile feedback compared to linear switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is designed for smoothness with its mild and polished qualities. This means that typists can expect a gentle experience without the harshness of overly firm engagement, paired with a silky key travel that ensures ease when typing. The Ink Black V2's refined feel makes it approachable for most users, balancing comfort and performance effectively.

In conclusion, while the Kailh Box White V2 excels in providing immediate and satisfying auditory feedback through its distinct clickiness, the Gateron Ink Black V2 favors a more mellow sound experience with its low-pitched and bassy acoustic profile. In terms of feel, the Box White V2 leans towards a tactile engagement, likely providing a pronounced feedback, whereas the Ink Black V2 allows for a smoother and more gentle experience. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, each switch offers a unique experience that caters to different typing styles, ensuring there's something for everyone in the mechanical keyboard ecosystem.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch will largely depend on your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you desire from your keyboard. If you enjoy an engaging and tactile typing experience characterized by a crisp feedback and an audible click, the Box White V2 will likely be your go-to option. Its lighter 50 grams actuation force makes it suitable for those who prefer quick, responsive keystrokes, making it a great choice for typing or gaming sessions where you crave that satisfying auditory confirmation with each press. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and serene typing experience without the distraction of clicky sounds, the Ink Black V2 is the way to go. With its medium-heavy 70 grams bottom-out force and polished feel, it provides a more substantial keystroke that can enhance your focus, especially during long typing or gaming bouts. The low-pitched, bassy sound profile of the Ink Black V2 adds a rich auditory layer without overwhelming noise, making it ideal for quieter environments or for users who appreciate a more refined tactile feel. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you enjoy the lively feedback of clicky switches or the smooth elegance of linear switches, ensuring that your final choice elevates your overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more