Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the switch you choose can dramatically influence your typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 stands out for its clicky feedback, offering a satisfying tactile response accompanied by a pronounced audible click, making it a favorite for those who relish a more traditional typing experience that fosters a sense of engagement and rhythm. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola presents an intriguing alternative with its smooth and bouncy linear action, characterized by a unique sound profile that resembles a hollow “can of spray paint being shaken.” The Luciola's distinctive glowing feature also adds a visually appealing aspect to the typing experience, perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate aesthetics as much as performance. While the Box White V2 emphasizes tactile feedback for typists and gamers who enjoy auditory cues, the Luciola prioritizes a fluid, effortless glide that many users find ideal for fast-paced typing. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Luciola switches both exhibit distinct sound profiles that can be attributed to their top housing materials. The Box White V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and clarity, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and more resonant sound. This stiffness allows the switch to produce a crisper auditory feedback that is particularly noticeable when releasing the key, making it ideal for those who appreciate a pronounced sound signature. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing that also yields a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. While the Luciola's profile is described as thinner and clackier, it still aligns closely with the sharper characteristics of the Box White V2, leading to similar results in terms of auditory clarity and a satisfying acoustic experience.
When examining the bottom housing materials, the differences between the two switches become more pronounced. The Kailh Box White V2 incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which is traditionally known for producing deeper, fuller sound profiles. The absorption characteristics of nylon soften the soundscape, resulting in a rounder tonal quality that contrasts with the clearer tones from the polycarbonate top. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola employs an INK blend material for its bottom housing as well, which complements the sharpness of the top by providing a similar high-pitched auditory experience. Though both switches aim for a pointy sound, the nylon in the Box White V2 gives it a different feel, showcasing the nuanced differences created by their unique bottom housing materials.
Ultimately, the distinct characteristics of the top and bottom housing materials in both the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Luciola create a layered sound profile that enhances the tactile experience of the switches. The combination of a stiffer polycarbonate top and a softer nylon bottom in the Box White V2 results in a more pronounced and rounded auditory experience. Conversely, with both the Luciola's top and bottom made from INK blend material, the change in sound is more subtle, resulting in a consistent clacky tone throughout the keystroke. Therefore, while both switches offer engaging sound profiles, the variations in their housing materials lead to different overall acoustic experiences, making them appealing to various typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Box White V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a more gentle typing experience that can be beneficial for extended use, such as long workdays or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Luciola has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which offers a more substantial feel for users who prefer a stronger push while typing. Therefore, the Kailh Box White V2 is suited for those seeking a lighter switch, while the Gateron Luciola caters to individuals who enjoy a heavier keystroke sensation. As a result, users can expect distinctly different typing experiences based on their preferences for switch weight and overall force sensitivity.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that when pressing down on either key, users will experience the same travel distance from the top to the bottom of the switch. This uniformity in travel distance results in comparable keypress experiences, allowing users to achieve similar results in terms of keystroke depth and feedback. Therefore, whether one prefers the tactile click of the Box White V2 or the smoothness of the Luciola, the consistent travel distance ensures that neither switch offers a shorter or longer travel 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 Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 crisp tactile feedback and pronounced audible click, which can be quite satisfying for users who enjoy the auditory confirmation of their typing. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola switches have a more unique and multifaceted acoustic profile. They produce a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, accompanied by a chirpy squeak that adds personality to every keystroke. Moreover, their sound profile includes a marbly resonance, evoking a high-pitched clarity that can be reminiscent of a clean strike on a marble surface. The differences in sound are significant, making each switch suited for different preferences—lovers of a clear click versus those who enjoy a more playful and resonant sound.
In terms of feel, the Box White V2 is generally anticipated to deliver a tactile sensation characterized by its click, which prompts excitement with every key press. However, the specifics of the Box White V2’s feel are not provided. The Gateron Luciola switch, on the other hand, is known for its snappy response and medium heft, which gives typists a sense of liveliness while typing. Users will appreciate the buttery smoothness of the keystroke, making the typing experience fluid and seamless. The polished finish contributes to reduced friction, enhancing overall performance and comfort. While the Box White V2 may provide a distinctive tactile feedback, the smooth and responsive characteristics of the Luciola cater to typists looking for a fluid experience.
In summary, while the Kailh Box White V2 focuses on delivering a sharp clicky sound and tactile sensation, the Gateron Luciola switches emphasize a playful and resonant auditory experience along with a smooth, responsive feel. Choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding sound and typing experience. While the Box White V2 is great for click enthusiasts, those seeking a bouncy, polished, and playful typing experience will find the Luciola to be more fitting.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Luciola switches really comes down to your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a clicky feedback with a lighter actuation force and appreciate the traditional auditory feedback while typing, the Box White V2 is a great option for you; its crisp tactile feedback and distinct click sound can enhance your overall typing experience, making it perfect for typing tasks or coding. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more polished feel with a medium actuation force, combined with a unique sound profile that is both snappy and somewhat clacky, the Gateron Luciola will be more to your liking. The mesmerizing glow-in-the-dark feature adds a fun visual element as well, ideal for gamers or anyone looking to add personality to their setup. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you value a tactile clicky experience or a smoother, more fluid typing motion.
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