Kailh Box White V2 vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Kang White stand out as distinct choices catering to different typing preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its satisfying click and tactile feedback, making it an excellent option for those who enjoy an audible response with each keystroke. Its crispness can enhance the typing experience, providing a sense of confidence and precision, particularly favored by typists and gamers who thrive on feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White offers a smooth, linear experience that captivates users with its poppy sound and self-lubricating material, ideal for long typing sessions without the distractions of clicks or bumps. This makes it an attractive choice for gamers and typists who prefer a quieter, more fluid action. While both switches have their unique appeals, they cater to distinctly different user experiences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Kang White switches share a remarkable similarity in their top housing materials, as both utilize polycarbonate. This common choice contributes to the switches having a higher-pitched, crisper sound profile, which is characterized by clarity and resonance. The polycarbonate's stiffness allows for a sharper sound when the key is pressed and released, enhancing the overall auditory experience. Furthermore, both switches benefit aesthetically from their translucent polycarbonate housings, which are particularly advantageous when RGB lighting is used, allowing for vibrant illumination through the switch.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of both switches diverge little, as they are constructed from nylon. This choice is indicative of a deeper, more rounded sound profile that complements the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is recognized for its capacity to absorb sound, resulting in a fuller auditory sensation when typing. As such, while both the Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Kang White offer crisper sounds on key press due to their polycarbonate tops, their nylon bottoms contribute to producing a duller sound on bottoming out, merging their distinct sound qualities into a cohesive typing experience.
When considering the combined effect of the distinct housing materials in each switch, it becomes clear that the sonic characteristics are interconnected. Since both switches employ the same types of materials for their respective housings, one can expect a harmonious blend of sound profiles regardless of the brand. The polycarbonate top provides the high-frequency clarity, while the nylon bottom rounds out the auditory signature, ensuring users receive a similar tactile and auditory response when typing. This shared approach to housing materials ultimately leads to a comparable experience across both the Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Kang White switches.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch to the KTT Kang White linear switch, the actuation forces of both switches are identical at 45 grams, providing a similar typing experience when it comes to initiating a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly, with the Box White V2 reaching 50 grams while the Kang White has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that while both switches require the same effort to register a keystroke, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a lighter overall feel due to its lower bottom out force. Consequently, those who prefer a switch that allows for prolonged typing sessions with less effort would gravitate towards the Kailh Box White V2, whereas users seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier KTT Kang White switch. This fundamental difference in bottom out force may sway users' preferences based on their typing style and desired feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, we find that they differ notably. The Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kang White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Kang White offers a more pronounced feel when pressed, ideal for users who prefer a hearty depth to their keystrokes. Conversely, if you favor responsiveness and quicker actuation, the Box White V2's shorter travel distance may be more appealing. Ultimately, if you're aiming for faster response times, the Kailh Box White V2 would be the better choice, while those who enjoy a deeper keypress may lean towards the KTT Kang White.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 renowned for their pronounced, crisp click, providing a clear auditory feedback that can be both satisfying and attention-grabbing during typing sessions. This results in an unmistakable sharpness that many users enjoy, particularly those who favor a tactile and audible typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Kang White linear switches have a sound profile that is more subdued and mellower; they are characterized by a low-pitched, neutral sound. Their tonal quality is smoother and less disruptive, making them a more versatile option for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. Overall, while the Box White V2 delivers an engaging clicky experience, the Kang White offers a tranquil and unobtrusive auditory presence.
In terms of feel, the Box White V2 excels with its distinct tactile feedback, allowing users to experience a noticeable bump at the actuation point; this quality makes it appealing for typists who prefer a more engaging and interactive feel when striking the keys. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch provides a silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its self-lubricating material. This contributes to a frictionless keypress with no tactile bump, making it ideal for users who prefer seamless keystrokes, often favored for gaming and rapid typing tasks. The difference in tactile feedback creates contrasting experiences: one is defined by interactivity, while the other is marked by fluidity.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Kang White linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Box White V2 appeals to users who love the satisfying click and tactile feedback, while the Kang White is perfect for those who appreciate a smooth, quiet performance. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience or a seamless, quiet typing action.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate the traditional tactile feedback and the satisfying audible click that accompanies each keypress, the Box White V2 with its lighter actuation force of 50 grams may be the better option for you, especially for tasks that require a robust auditory and tactile experience, such as typing or gaming where feedback is crucial. This switch shines in environments that can accommodate its clicky sound, making it ideal for personal use at home or in settings that relish the joy of mechanical keyboards. On the flip side, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience with less tactile interruption while typing or gaming, the KTT Kang White linear switch, which features a higher bottom-out force of 58 grams, would serve you well. Its self-lubricating nature ensures an unparalleled smoothness, making it perfect for long typing sessions or office environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the balance you seek between sound, feel, and how you intend to use your keyboard.
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