Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron Lunar Probe

Overview

When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches plays a pivotal role in the typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 switches are celebrated for their distinctive clicky feedback, delivering sharp tactile responses and an audible click that many typists find satisfying. This makes them an excellent option for users who appreciate a more pronounced typing experience and often require auditory cues to confirm keystrokes. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches offer a completely different sensation with their linear design, which features a smooth and steady keypress, thanks to Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism. These switches are pre-lubed, providing a velvety experience with a subtle sound signature, making them ideal for those who prefer a quiet and fluid operation, particularly in environments where noise levels are a concern. Each switch has its unique appeal, catering to distinct preferences—whether it's the tactile feedback of the Kailh Box White V2 or the serene smoothness of the Gateron Lunar Probe. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your typing needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Lunar Probe, one of the most notable similarities lies in their choice of housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This shared material choice leads to an enhanced acoustic performance characteristic of polycarbonate, wherein the stiffer plastic allows for a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate housing enhances the aesthetic appeal, particularly for users who utilize RGB lighting. This makes both switches excellent options for those prioritizing not just performance but also visual impact in their keyboard setups.

However, the bottom housing material distinguishes the Box White V2 from the Lunar Probe, with both switches employing nylon for this part. Nylon, recognized as a classic switch housing material, absorbs sound differently compared to polycarbonate. Its relatively softer nature produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, contributing significantly to the overall typing experience. While the shared top housing material helps in delivering a consistent sound during key release, the nylon bottom housing adds a rounded quality that influences the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a well-rounded auditory experience that benefits both switches.

Ultimately, the combination of materials in the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Lunar Probe achieves a balanced sound profile that reflects the characteristics of both polycarbonate and nylon. While the polycarbonate tops create a crisp response upon key release, the nylon bottoms soften the impact sounds during actuation. Thus, whether opting for the Box White V2 or the Lunar Probe, users can expect a satisfying sound experience that blends the sharpness of polycarbonate with the warmth of nylon, underscoring the thoughtful engineering that goes into these popular switch designs.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, both exhibit identical specifications in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Each switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke and to fully depress. Because of these equal specifications, users can expect similar experiences regarding resistance when typing or gaming. Moreover, the lighter weight of both switches is advantageous for those who engage in extensive typing sessions or long gaming marathons, as it promotes less finger fatigue. However, for users preferring a more substantial tactile response, neither switch will provide the heavier push feel often sought after, making them more suitable for lighter typing experiences.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in identical keypress experiences in terms of depth. This means that when using either switch, users will feel the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom, leading to similar actuation results. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they provide a consistent tactile feedback experience, making them equally suitable for various typing preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White V2 switches are characterized by their distinct and audible click, providing a satisfying auditory response with each key press. This click sound is a defining feature that many users find appealing for both typing and gaming, as it adds an element of feedback that can enhance the overall experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches deliver a more subdued auditory profile, featuring a smooth and quieter operation that results in a subtle sound signature. This makes the Lunar Probe an ideal choice for users who prefer a less noisy environment while still enjoying a satisfying typing feel.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switches provide a sharp tactile bump, allowing for precise feedback during typing which can boost typing accuracy and typing speed for many users. The tactile response is complemented by the pronounced click, creating a blend of feel and sound that is particularly appreciated in typing scenarios. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches are known for their incredibly smooth and linear feel, thanks to Gateron’s dual rail mechanism. This design ensures stable and consistent key presses, which many users find appealing for a seamless experience during extended typing or gaming sessions without any tactile interruptions.

In conclusion, both the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Lunar Probe switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The Box White V2 excels with its crisp click sound and tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy auditory cues while typing. Conversely, the Lunar Probe focuses on providing a smooth, silent experience ideal for users seeking a more subdued or professional setup. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on individual preferences, with the Box White V2 favoring tactile and auditory engagement, and the Lunar Probe catering to those who prioritize smoothness and subtlety.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch should be informed by your specific preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy distinct tactile feedback and an audible click that can enhance your typing experience and give you a satisfying sensation with each keystroke, the Box White V2 will likely suit you well. This makes it a great option for typists who thrive on the responsiveness and clear feedback that clicky switches provide. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, especially for prolonged gaming sessions or work tasks where noise may be a concern, the Gateron Lunar Probe would be the better choice. Its linear action, coupled with the pre-lubed design, ensures a fluid keystroke without the distraction of clicks. In summary, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize tactile engagement and sound or seek a smooth, uninterrupted flow in your keystrokes.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more