Kailh Box White V2 vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Mamba 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 Mamba offer distinctly different experiences that cater to various preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its clicky nature, providing not only a tactile feedback but also an audible click that many typists and gamers enjoy for its crispness, making every keystroke feel satisfying and engaging. In contrast, the Durock Mamba switches deliver a smooth, linear typing experience characterized by a gliding sensation and a rich auditory quality, described as "creamy." While the Box White V2 excels in creating an interactive and dynamic typing environment, the Mamba switches focus on delivering a more fluid experience. Depending on your typing style or gaming needs, your choice may lean toward the enthusiastic feedback of the Box White V2 or the serene glide of the Mamba. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Mamba, we see distinct differences in their top housing components, which greatly influence their respective acoustic profiles. The Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucency. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound as it resonates more clearly due to its stiffer nature. On the contrary, the Mamba utilizes a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing. While this material is not as rigid as polycarbonate, it also provides a brighter sound profile, albeit with a more pleasant timbre that isn’t as piercing. Thus, while both switches can achieve a brighter sound, the character and clarity differ, with the Box White V2 delivering a crisp resonance versus the Mamba’s more rounded brightness.
In terms of bottom housing, the materials diverge once again, impacting the overall sound experience when typing. The Kailh Box White V2 employs a nylon bottom housing, which is known for providing deeper, fuller tones. Nylon’s softer quality absorbs more sound, creating a rounder acoustic profile, thereby enhancing the pleasantness of each keystroke. In contrast, the Durock Mamba features a POM bottom housing, recognized for producing a unique sound that is also on the deeper side but notably more muted than that of nylon. This characteristic means that while both switches can generate a satisfying bottom-out experience, the Mamba may feel slightly more subdued, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials dictates the sonic signature and feel of each switch during use. The contrasting top housing materials significantly affect the sound produced when releasing a key, with the Box White V2 offering a more pronounced high-end and the Mamba presenting a softer brightness. Conversely, the bottom housings dictate the sound felt at the bottom-out point, with the nylon of the Box White V2 delivering a deeper sound, while the POM of the Mamba provides a more muted response. For users aiming for similar experiences, one may find that blending these switches in a keyboard could create a hybrid feel, merging the clear, crisp returns of polycarbonate with the deeper notes from nylon and POM, thereby achieving a unique typing experience that draws on the strengths of both designs.
Weight
The comparison between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch reveals significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option, suitable for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Durock Mamba has an unspecified actuation force but a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a heavier feel. This heavier bottom out force can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a greater tactile feedback when pressing keys. Overall, while the Kailh Box White V2 is ideal for users seeking a lighter touch, the Durock Mamba caters to those who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, we note that the Box White V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mamba features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Kailh Box White V2 offers a slightly deeper keystroke, which may cater to users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Durock Mamba, with its shorter distance, might appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances can lead to faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference; those preferring a more pronounced key press may gravitate toward the Box White V2, while those favoring speed and agility could opt for the Mamba.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 comparing the sound of the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Mamba switches, they present distinct auditory experiences. The Box White V2 is celebrated for its crisp and pronounced click, delivering a satisfying auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience, especially for those who enjoy a more engaging and interactive sound profile. In contrast, the Durock Mamba switches offer a more neutral sound characterized by a thocky profile, producing a deeper and richer tone when pressed. The Mamba provides a pleasant auditory experience that is generally more subdued than the Box White V2 but still rewarding, making it adaptable for any environment, be it work or home.
In terms of feel, the Box White V2 is built for an immediate and tactile engagement, delivering a pronounced tactile bump that signals actuation distinctly. This feature makes it an excellent choice for typists who prefer to feel every keystroke. The Durock Mamba, on the other hand, boasts a mild and polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing sensation. The combination of a gentle actuation and a sleek finish ensures that the Mamba provides a more comfortable experience, appealing to those who favor a fluid typing experience without the distinct tactile feedback associated with clicky switches like the Box White V2.
Ultimately, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Mamba switches cater to different preferences. The Box White V2 excels in delivering a sharp, clicky sound with engaging tactile feedback, ideal for users who enjoy a highly interactive typing experience. In contrast, the Mamba offers a smooth, neutral sound profile paired with a mild tactile feel, making it versatile and approachable for various users. Each switch brings its own unique qualities, allowing newcomers to find the right fit based on their sound and feel preferences, whether they lean towards a more pronounced auditory sensation or a smoother, polished typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a light actuation force combined with pronounced tactile feedback and a satisfying click sound, the Box White V2 is an excellent option for you. It's well-suited for typists who appreciate auditory and tactile sensations, making it particularly enjoyable for both everyday typing and gaming sessions where feedback can enhance your performance. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more refined typing experience with an audible but softer sound profile, the Durock Mamba would be the better choice. With its medium bottom-out force, the Mamba offers a gliding sensation that suits long typing sessions without causing fatigue, and its neutral, thocky characteristics make it a versatile option for both work and casual use. Ultimately, selecting the right switch boils down to whether you prioritize clicky feedback or a smooth linear experience, so consider what feels best to you during your keyboard journey.
Mentioned in this article
