Kailh Box White V2 vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear can significantly impact your typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2, a clicky switch, is renowned for its crisp tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy a more interactive feel and sound with each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, thanks to its long 22mm spring and excellent factory lube, which minimize resistance for smooth key travel. With a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange is perfect for those looking for a serene typing experience without the noticeable clicks associated with tactile switches. While the Kailh Box White V2 caters to those who thrive on feedback and sound, the KTT Orange is ideal for users seeking a quieter, fluid typing experience. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Orange switches, we observe similarities in their top housing materials, with both featuring polycarbonate as the primary material. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile across both switches. This shared characteristic yields a crisp auditory experience, appealing to users who enjoy the sound of their switches aligning with that of premium mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making both switches aesthetically pleasing for users who value visual flair in their setups.
Contrasting the two switches, we find notable differences in their bottom housing materials. The Kailh Box White V2 utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, while the KTT Orange opts for polycarbonate. This distinction significantly influences the overall sound profile of both switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Box White V2 offers a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound waves and creates a more rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper sound characteristics, contributing to a more resonant and clear audio output. Therefore, users may find that the KTT Orange's bottom housing yields a livelier typing experience, in contrast to the more subdued and rounded feedback provided by the Box White V2.
Ultimately, the combined materials used in the Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Orange switches create distinct sound and feel profiles, despite the shared polycarbonate top housing. While both switches benefit from the clarity and brilliance that polycarbonate brings, the switch experience diverges at the bottom housing level. Users who prefer a sharper, more resonant sound should gravitate towards the KTT Orange, while those who enjoy a deeper and fuller feedback may find the Kailh Box White V2 to be more satisfying. Regardless, the combination of materials used allows for a unique typing experience that aligns with the preferences of different users, and both switches are likely to deliver exceptional results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch regarding actuation and bottom out forces, there are notable differences. The Box White V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option overall. In contrast, the KTT Orange requires a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams and has a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This means that while both switches provide a relatively gentle typing experience, the Box White V2 offers a marginally lighter touch, which may be more suitable for users who type for extended periods or prefer a lighter feel. Conversely, the KTT Orange provides a more substantial typing experience due to its slightly higher forces, which may appeal to those favoring a more pronounced tactile feedback. Thus, if one prefers a lighter switch for comfort during long sessions, the Kailh Box White V2 may be the better choice, while the KTT Orange could be suitable for those wanting slightly more resistance.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch present slightly different travel distances, with the former measuring 3.6 mm and the latter at 3.5 mm. This means that the KTT Orange has a shorter travel distance by just 0.1 mm. For gamers seeking enhanced responsiveness, the KTT Orange could be the more appealing option due to its marginally quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Box White V2, offering a slightly deeper travel distance, might be favored by those who appreciate a more substantial feel during typing or gaming. Ultimately, while the difference in travel distance is minor, it may influence user preference based on their comfort and style of use.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 clicky switch delivers a pronounced auditory experience that can significantly enhance typing engagement. Its crisp tactile feedback is accompanied by an audible click sound that occurs right at the actuation point, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy the traditional feedback of a classic clicky switch. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch presents a low-pitched sound profile that is mellower and more subdued compared to higher-pitched alternatives. This low-pitched sound gives it a softer acoustic contour, allowing for quieter typing sessions without losing the satisfying sensation of key presses.
In terms of feel, the Box White V2 offers a tactile and clicky sensation that enhances the typing rhythm, providing a definite point of actuation that can be satisfying for users who prefer feedback with each keystroke. This sharp tactile response makes it popular among typists looking for a more engaging experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch is engineered for a bouncy type feel, reminiscent of a spring that provides a pleasant rebound upon release. Its frictionless design contributes to a smooth, effortless typing experience that minimizes any sense of resistance, allowing for quick and fluid strokes. This makes it particularly appealing for those who prioritize speed and smoothness over tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Orange switches cater to different preferences. The Box White V2 excels in delivering a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it great for typists who appreciate auditory cues and a distinct actuation feel. In contrast, the KTT Orange offers a more subdued auditory presence paired with a bouncy and frictionless typing sensation, appealing to users who prefer a smoother and quieter experience. Depending on your typing style and sound preferences, either switch could serve you well, but they undeniably provide different sensory qualities during use.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Orange switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a switch that provides clear auditory and tactile feedback, the Box White V2 is your go-to option. Its 50 grams of actuation force make it easy to press, offering that signature clicky sound and crisp feel that enhances typing accuracy and can be quite satisfying for those who love to hear each keystroke. This switch is particularly well-suited for typists, gamers who appreciate a pronounced feedback, or anyone who enjoys the nostalgic aspect of clicky sounds. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a more subdued sound profile, then the KTT Orange is likely more your style. With a slightly heavier 53 grams of bottom-out force, the Orange switch delivers a bouncy and frictionless feel, allowing for effortless key travel that can be advantageous during long typing sessions or high-speed gaming. The low-pitched sound it produces also provides a more subtle audio experience, ideal for environments where noise is a concern. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different use cases, so consider your typing habits and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard to make the best choice.
Mentioned in this article
