Kailh Box White V2 vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Koala 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 Durock Koala each offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 is renowned for its clicky feedback, delivering a crisp tactile sensation combined with an audible click that many typists find satisfying; this makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience with clear auditory cues. In contrast, the Durock Koala switches provide a tactile feel without the excessive noise, featuring a stepped tactility that delivers a pronounced bump without overwhelming resonance, making them an ideal option for users seeking a balance between feedback and a quieter operation. While the Kailh Box White V2 shines for its expressiveness and engaging user experience, the Durock Koalas are perfect for those who desire a nuanced yet subtle keystroke. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When examining the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Koala, one can observe notable similarities in their choice of materials for the top housing. Both switches feature polycarbonate for their upper casings, which contributes to a distinctly sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, known for its relative stiffness, enhances resonance, allowing for a clear auditory feedback that many enthusiasts prefer. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in these housings also makes them particularly appealing for setups that incorporate RGB lighting, as the light can shine through effectively, adding an aesthetic element to the overall design of the switches.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Koala have a common material base as well, utilizing nylon. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than the stiffer polycarbonate. The interaction between the top and bottom housings leads to distinct auditory experiences, where the bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound created when releasing a key. Hence, both switches deliver a versatile range of sounds that cater to different typing preferences.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials in the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Koala defines their tactile and auditory character. The shared polycarbonate top housing generates clarity and contributes to a distinctive sound when keys are released, while the nylon bottom housing provides a fuller auditory response when keys are pressed. This interplay allows both switches to deliver a well-rounded typing experience, with similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic compatibility for RGB setups. Consequently, regardless of the slight variations in their construction, users can expect comparable performance and satisfaction from both models in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch to the Durock Koala tactile switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming due to its lighter feel. In contrast, the Durock Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a firmer resistance; however, its actuation force is unspecified, which leaves a gap in making a direct comparison. Nonetheless, it’s clear that the Koala is designed for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy feel. As such, while the Kailh Box White V2 is lighter and offers a softer touch, the Durock Koala caters to those who favor a stronger push, making each switch distinct in terms of user preference and usability.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, the distinctions are quite apparent. The Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Koala has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that those who favor a more responsive typing experience with less travel time might prefer the shorter Kailh Box White V2, as its distance caters to faster gameplay and typing. In contrast, the Durock Koala's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper, more substantial feel, which could appeal to users who enjoy that tactile feedback and a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Box White V2 would be the better choice, while those seeking a hearty depth in their keystrokes might gravitate toward the Koala.
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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 crisp, pronounced click, providing a distinctly audible feedback with each keystroke. This clicky sound is sharp, making it particularly satisfying for typists who enjoy an auditory cue that emphasizes their input. In contrast, the Durock Koala switches produce a low-pitched sound profile that leans towards a mellow tone, offering a more subdued auditory experience without being silent. While the Koalas have a certain resonance, they remain less intrusive in environments where noise levels matter, making them versatile for both home and office settings.
In terms of feel, the Box White V2 is noted for its tactile feedback that delivers a clear and immediate response upon actuation; however, the precise aspects of its smoothness and weighting may vary. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switches boast a polished feel, attributed to either high-quality materials or factory lubing, which allows for a refined typing experience with reduced friction. Additionally, their stepped tactility means users experience a prominent bump without excessive force or scratchiness, striking a balance that’s neither too harsh nor too gentle in feedback. Moreover, the stiffness of the Koala switch creates a more deliberate typing experience, requiring more force to actuate, enhancing the sensation of control during typing.
In summary, both switches offer distinctive experiences suited to different typing preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 excels with its sharp click sound and immediate tactile feedback, making it ideal for typists who enjoy clear auditory signals and tactile responsiveness. Meanwhile, the Durock Koala combines a low-pitched sound with a polished and stepped tactile feel, striking a balance between tactility and smoothness, which is great for those who favor a more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your individual preferences for sound, feel, and the typing experience you seek.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider the nature of your typing experience and your preferences. If you're looking for a switch that delivers a light touch with pronounced auditory feedback, the Kailh Box White V2 is an excellent choice. It's ideal for typists who enjoy the satisfaction of audible clicks and crave a more spirited engagement with each keystroke—perfect for creating a lively atmosphere at your workstation or gaming setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued yet still impactful typing experience, the Durock Koala might be the better fit for you. With its medium-heavy actuation force and stepped tactility, it offers a smoother, more polished feel, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without the fatigue that can come with stiffer switches. The Koala's low-pitched sound profile ensures a discreet experience, which might be more appropriate if you're in a shared environment or simply want a quieter setup. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style, the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard, and what aspects of a switch you find most enjoyable.
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