Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Ink Yellow 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 in tactile feedback and auditory experience. The Kailh Box White V2 switches are celebrated for their distinctive clicky sensation, providing not only a satisfying tactile response but also an audible click that many typists find gratifying. These switches are perfect for those who enjoy a more traditional typing feel, reminiscent of classic typewriters, and appreciate feedback that keeps them engaged. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switches offer a different appeal with their linear design characterized by a smooth and quiet keystroke. With a shorter travel distance, these switches cater to users seeking a typing experience that melds the comfort of laptop keys with the responsive nature of a mechanical keyboard, making them ideal for fast typists and gamers alike. While both switches bring unique strengths to the table, they also fulfill distinct needs based on user preferences. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Ink Yellow switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which considerably affects their sound profiles. The Box White V2 is constructed with a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and clear sound resonance. This material contributes to a sharper and crisper auditory experience, making it ideal for users seeking a punchy keypress sound, especially when combined with RGB backlighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend top housing that, while also producing a high-pitched sound, is characterized as less sharp or abrasive than polycarbonate. This distinction allows the Ink Yellow's overall profile to be described as clacky but less aggressive, offering a different auditory experience.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the two switches take a markedly different approach. The Kailh Box White V2 incorporates a nylon bottom housing, attributed to its classic switch design. Nylon's softer composition absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper high of the polycarbonate top. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow also uses Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, aimed at maintaining a pointed high-pitched sound that aligns with the characteristics of its top housing. Although both switches draw on a similar auditory theme, the Box White V2's use of nylon provides a more rounded sound, while the Ink Yellow seeks to sustain a consistent clacky experience across both housing sections.
In summary, while both the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Ink Yellow switches strive for a high-pitched auditory profile, their differing materials for top and bottom housings create unique sound signatures and experiences. The Box White V2 balances a crisper top sound with a fuller bottom sound due to its nylon housing, while the Ink Yellow maintains a coherent sound profile with its INK blend materials on both ends. Consequently, both switches can achieve satisfying acoustic results, albeit through varied constructions: the Box White V2 excels in pronounced sound clarity, while the Ink Yellow aims for a steadier clack without the over-sharp quality. These differences will ultimately cater to diverse preferences among typists and gamers alike.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces highlight distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Box White V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for long typing sessions, particularly for users who favor a lighter switch. In contrast, the Ink Yellow features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which provides a more substantial feel when typing, appealing to those who prefer a stronger tactile experience. Therefore, users seeking a lighter switch for comfort during extended use may gravitate towards the Box White V2, while those desiring a heavier and more robust keystroke would likely enjoy the Ink Yellow switch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm highlights that gamers who prioritize quick response times may find the Ink Yellow to be marginally more responsive due to its shorter distance. However, the Box White V2 offers a bit more depth, which can provide a more substantial feel for typists or those who prefer a less abrupt keystroke. Ultimately, while both switches are relatively close in travel distances, the Ink Yellow is the shorter option, making it potentially better suited for fast-paced gaming, whereas the Box White V2 may appeal to those who enjoy a bit more of a tactile experience.
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 Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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
The Kailh Box White V2 switch is well-known for its characteristic crisp tactile feedback combined with a prominent audible click, making the sound of each keystroke distinct and attention-grabbing. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch presents a more neutral sound profile but can also be classified as clacky. The Ink Yellow's sound is described as sharp and snappy, similar to the Box White V2, but might not have the same level of volume or distinctness. Consequently, while both switches can produce satisfying auditory feedback, the Box White V2 is better suited for those who appreciate a pronounced click, whereas the Ink Yellow offers a versatile sound that can appeal to a broader range of users in various settings.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Box White V2 provides a tactile experience that emphasizes feedback, making it work well for typists who enjoy a more engaging interaction with their keyboard. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow switch delivers a mild sensation paired with a polished finish, leading to a smoother typing experience that feels gentle on the fingers. This combination of mildness and smoothness can be particularly appealing for those transitioning from laptop keyboards, as it strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. While the tactile nature of the Box White V2 can be stimulating, the Ink Yellow offers a refined touch that is approachable for all levels of users.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Ink Yellow switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Box White V2 shines with its crisp, clicky auditory feedback and pronounced tactile feedback that engages typists. Meanwhile, the Ink Yellow provides a smoother, more versatile typing experience with its mild and polished characteristics, making it adaptable for various scenarios. Choosing between these switches primarily depends on whether you prioritize a lively, engaging typing experience or a more subdued, smooth interaction with your keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, consider your specific typing preferences and the environments in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you enjoy a highly tactile experience with an audible click that adds an engaging rhythm to your typing, the Box White V2 is an excellent choice, particularly for creative writing sessions or coding where feedback is essential. Its light actuation force and pronounced sound can keep you alert and motivated during extended typing sessions. However, if you prefer a smoother, more muted experience that strikes a balance between the portability of a laptop and the responsive feel of a mechanical keyboard, then the Gateron Ink Yellow is the way to go. Its heavier actuation force and polished finish provide a solid yet gentle typing experience, making it ideal for both work environments and casual gaming, without being too distracting. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you appreciate the auditory and tactile feedback of a clicky switch or the smooth, quieter operation of a linear one.
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