Kailh Box White V2 vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Matcha offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 is a clicky switch celebrated for its sharp tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy an emphasized auditory and physical response with each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Matcha is a tactile switch that excels in delivering a comfortable and snappy feel while typing. Its long pole stem contributes to a cleaner bottom-out sound, appealing to those who favor a softer tactile experience without the additional click. Each switch has its unique appeal: the Box White V2 is perfect for those who thrive on feedback and enjoy the traditional clicky sensation, whereas the Matcha offers a more subdued yet still engaging tactile experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Matcha both feature polycarbonate top housings, resulting in a highly similar sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffer structure, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic creates a clear and resonant audio experience, making both switches apt for RGB lighting due to the material's translucency. The aesthetic advantage of the polycarbonate top housing plays a vital role for users who prioritize visuals alongside performance, ensuring that the switches can showcase bright and vibrant lighting effects.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Matcha differ significantly in material, which leads to varying sound profiles. The Box White V2 employs a nylon bottom housing, which is traditionally known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. This results in a rounder, more subdued audio character when pressing the keys. Conversely, the KTT Matcha, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, continues the trend of crisper and more focused sound, mirroring the qualities found in its top housing.
These material differences highlight how the Kailh Box White V2 balances the sharper notes of its polycarbonate top housing with the deeper tones from its nylon bottom, leading to a complex auditory experience. In comparison, the KTT Matcha retains a consistent sound profile throughout, courtesy of its dual polycarbonate structure. When pressing either switch, users can expect distinct feedback and sound characteristics based on their material composition, where the Box White V2 may offer more variation in tone while the KTT Matcha provides a more uniform auditory identity. Ultimately, the selection between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound dynamics and feel when typing.
Weight
Comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch reveals some interesting differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Matcha offers a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the KTT Matcha is the lighter option, making it more suitable for users who prefer a gentler touch during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, provides a more substantial typing experience for those who appreciate a firmer key feel. Overall, while both switches are on the lighter side, the Matcha's reduced force may allow for quicker and easier keystrokes, whereas the Box White V2 caters to those who prefer a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Matcha tactile switch features a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that when pressing the keys, the Box White V2 will provide a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, which is often favored by gamers for quicker response times. In contrast, the KTT Matcha's longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback, appealing to those who prefer a deeper feeling when typing or gaming. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a quicker actuation, the Kailh Box White V2 would be the better option, whereas the KTT Matcha is suited for users who enjoy a more pronounced key press 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 KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 known for their crisp tactile feedback accompanied by a pronounced, authoritative click that enhances the typing experience. This click sound is sharp and creates a satisfying auditory response with each keystroke, catering well to those who enjoy an audible confirmation of their inputs. In comparison, the KTT Matcha switch produces a clacky sound that is crisp, bright, and decidedly percussive, akin to a well-tuned instrument. The Matcha’s distinctly clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem, contrasts with the Box White V2's more click-focused audio profile, offering a blend of character that many users find charming. Overall, while both switches deliver an engaging auditory experience, the Box White V2 excels in its pronounced click, whereas the Matcha provides a more varied sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a generally rigid tactile experience that can be quite satisfying for typists who enjoy a direct and clear tactile response. While specifics about the Box White V2 are limited, it is clear that this switch delivers a straightforward, clicky sensation that might be more suited to fast typers. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch is praised for its comfortable, snappy tactility, which features a stepped design that allows for nuanced feedback throughout the keystroke. The Matcha's snappy responsiveness is likely due to its longer or dual-staged spring, making it feel alive and engaging during use. Additionally, it is described as having a medium tactile profile that avoids being overly harsh, fitting nicely into a range of typing environments due to its feathery touch that reduces finger fatigue and extends comfort during long sessions.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Matcha switches present a distinct but enjoyable typing experience tailored to different preferences. The Box White V2's emphasis on a crisp clicking sound aligns with those who appreciate a definitive auditory feedback, whereas the Matcha offers a more versatile sound profile paired with a comfortable tactile experience that accommodates a broader range of typing styles. Ultimately, both switches can deliver an engaging experience, but their unique qualities cater to different expectations regarding sound and feel. Choosing between them would depend on whether you prioritize an authoritative click or a more subtle, nuanced tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Matcha switches will primarily depend on your preferences regarding tactile feedback, auditory experience, and typing comfort. If you enjoy the feel of a clicky switch that not only provides crisp tactile feedback but also delivers a satisfying audible click, the Kailh Box White V2 is a fantastic option, especially if you prefer a more engaging typing experience that goes beyond mere actuation. Its light bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it suitable for extended typing sessions without causing much finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you seek a more subdued, yet still responsive tactile experience, the KTT Matcha might be the better fit for you. With a slightly lighter force of 45 grams, these switches offer a comfortable and snappy feel, characterized by their unique stepped tactility that avoids overwhelming feedback. Their clackiness adds a fun sonic layer to your typing experience without being overly intrusive, making them a great choice for both quieter office environments and gaming sessions. Ultimately, consider your typing style and environment when making your decision, and you’ll find that either switch can enhance your keyboard experience in its own distinct way.
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