Kailh Box White V2 vs. KTT Purple Star

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Purple Star present two distinct options that cater to different typing preferences. The Box White V2 is celebrated for its clicky feedback, offering a satisfying tactile response complemented by a pronounced audible click, ideal for typists who enjoy the reassurance of every keystroke and the engaging sound that accompanies it. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star switches provide a linear experience characterized by their smooth actuation and neutral sound profile, making them a fantastic choice for users who favor quiet operation and seamless keystrokes. With a lighter 45g bottom-out force, the Purple Star switches are perfect for those who appreciate a lighter touch, reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice between these switches depends on your personal typing style and sound preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

KTT Purple Star Linear

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

$4.88 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Purple Star switches showcase distinct differences in their housing materials, specifically in the top housing, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Box White V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer structure that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic makes the polycarbonate a preferred choice for individuals seeking a more resonant auditory experience, particularly when RGB lighting is involved due to its translucency. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is recognized for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. Therefore, while the Box White V2 delivers a brighter auditory signature, the Purple Star is better suited for users who prefer a warmer and fuller sound.

Both switches, however, share a more conventional bottom housing material: the Box White V2 features a nylon bottom housing, while the KTT Purple Star opts for a POM bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Box White V2 contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, which tends to absorb sound waves, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star also creates a muted and unique sound profile, aligning with the trend of deeper tones. This equivalence in bottom housing materials results in similarities during gameplay or typing; both switches facilitate a more dampened sound whenever the key bottoms out, complementing the auditory experiences of their respective top housings.

Ultimately, the key differences lie primarily in the top housing materials, impacting the sound profile during key release, while the bottom housing contributes to the sound upon bottoming out. Users seeking more acute and clearer auditory feedback would likely gravitate toward the Kailh Box White V2, whereas those who prefer a deeper and more subdued auditory sensation may favor the KTT Purple Star. However, despite their contrasting sound characteristics, they can deliver comparable results regarding bottoming-out sounds, which are moderated by the shared focus on softer materials in their bottom housings. Thus, if both switches are used in tandem, one can achieve a pleasing balance of auditory experiences, leveraging the strengths of each housing material.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming. The Box White V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Purple Star is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams, but shares the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the Purple Star requires a slightly less force to register a keystroke, both switches bottom out at the same weight, providing a similar tactile experience when fully pressed. Ultimately, for users who prefer a lighter touch, the KTT Purple Star may be the better option due to its lower actuation force, whereas those seeking a bit more resistance might find the Kailh Box White V2 preferable for its more substantial feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it's evident that the Box White V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly longer than the Purple Star's 3.5 mm travel distance. This difference, while minimal, can influence user experience; those who prefer a more tactile and pronounced keypress may gravitate towards the Box White V2 for its additional depth. Conversely, gamers or those seeking quicker response times might favor the shorter travel distance of the Purple Star, which can feel a bit more abrupt and responsive. Ultimately, while both switches offer distinct experiences based on their travel distances, the Box White V2 is the option for those looking for a more substantial keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White V2 switches are characterized by their crisp, high-pitched click that resonates with a sharp audible feedback every time a key is pressed. This distinct click not only enhances the tactile experience but also provides clear auditory confirmation for typists, making it a preferred option for those who appreciate audible cues in their keystrokes. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star switches produce a low-pitched sound that is notably more subdued, delivering a mellow tone that lacks the sharpness of clicky switches. This neutral sound signature contributes to a quieter typing environment, which can be more suited for office settings or shared spaces where minimal noise is desired.

In terms of feel, the Box White V2 features a pronounced tactile bump combined with its click action, creating a distinctly engaging experience that many find satisfying. The tactile feedback is significant enough to encourage deliberate keystrokes, making it a great choice for touch typists who enjoy the combination of sound and feel. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switches offer a mild and smooth typing experience, with an easy-to-press design that requires minimal force. This user-friendly actuation caters to light typists and helps mitigate finger fatigue during longer typing sessions, providing a softer, less pronounced feel that's approachable for a wider range of users.

In conclusion, while the Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Purple Star switches present very different auditory and tactile experiences, both offer unique advantages tailored to specific typing preferences. The Box White V2 excels with its sharp, clicky sound and tactile feedback, appealing to those who thrive on auditory and tactile sensations. Conversely, the KTT Purple Star offers a more gentle sound and smooth actuation, catering to individuals seeking comfort and ease during prolonged typing. Whether you prefer a more enthusiastic typist-focused experience or a serene, effortless one, each switch delivers quality that can profoundly influence your overall keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Purple Star switches largely depends on your typing preferences and the specific usage scenarios you have in mind. If you enjoy a tactile feedback coupled with an audible click that enhances the typing experience, the Kailh Box White V2 is the way to go. Its light 50g bottom-out force provides an engaging feedback loop, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more interactive typing experience, especially when typing longer documents or programming where a precise keystroke can be satisfying and rewarding. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience without the click, the KTT Purple Star is an excellent choice. With its buttery smooth action and gentle resistance, this switch caters well to light typists and those who require less tactile feedback, making it suitable for extended sessions of typing or gaming where rapid key presses are necessary. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal style and how you plan to use your keyboard. By considering the unique characteristics of each switch, you can find the one that best fits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn more

KTT Purple Star Linear

$4.88 per 10

Learn more