Kailh Box White V2 vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Silent Red can significantly impact your typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 is renowned for its tactile feedback and pronounced audible click, making it an ideal option for those who enjoy a more interactive and engaging typing experience. Its clickiness not only serves as a satisfying auditory cue for each keystroke but can also enhance typing speed and accuracy for some users. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red offers a contrasting experience with its smooth, linear action and muted sound profile, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise may be an issue, such as shared workspaces or libraries. Known for its buttery consistency from top to bottom and comfortable padded bottom-out feel, the Silent Red allows for prolonged typing sessions without the distraction of sound. Each switch has its unique advantages depending on your preferences and environment; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Silent Red display both similarities and differences that significantly influence their respective acoustic profiles and tactile feedback. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the resonance and clarity of the sound produced when the switch is actuated. Additionally, since the polycarbonate is clear, it is not only functional in producing an engaging sound but also aesthetically pleasing, especially for setups that incorporate RGB lighting. This shared material characteristic suggests that users seeking a vibrant lighting experience and a clear auditory feedback from their key presses will find both switches similarly compelling in this regard.
Contrasting the two models, the bottom housing is where the significant differences lie. The Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Silent Red both employ nylon for their bottom housings, which introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile during usage. Nylon, being a softer plastic, effectively absorbs sound, leading to a more muted bottom-out sound compared to the sharper tones of the polycarbonate top. Therefore, while both switches present similar acoustic properties in the upper register due to their polycarbonate tops, they will each deliver a distinct tactile experience and sound when the key is fully pressed down, attributable to the absorbing qualities of the nylon in the lower sections of both switches.
In summary, while both the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Silent Red feature polycarbonate top housings, enhancing their brightness and clarity, they utilize nylon as their common bottom housing material, lending a softer and rounder quality to the sound produced when bottoming out. Since they share both top and bottom materials, users can expect similar overall outcomes in terms of auditory feedback, though the tactile feel will still vary subtly due to their unique design intentions. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on a user's preference for the combined effect of these material qualities on their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, their actuation forces are identical at 45 grams, indicating that both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, they diverge significantly in their bottom out forces, with the Box White V2 having a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Red's bottom out force is substantially heavier at 63.5 grams. This means that while both switches offer a light actuation experience, the Box White V2 provides a lighter and more forgiving bottoming out feel, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, the Silent Red, with its heavier bottom out force, delivers a more substantial push feel that some users might prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Overall, the Kailh Box White V2 is better for those seeking a lighter touch, while the TTC Silent Red caters to those who appreciate a firmer resistance when bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, the Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, the Silent Red will travel 0.1 mm further than the Box White V2. Gamers seeking quicker response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box White V2, as it can lead to faster actuation. Conversely, those who appreciate a more profound typing experience may find the 3.7 mm travel of the Silent Red more satisfying, as it provides a more substantial depth when pressing the keys. In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a shorter travel distance, while the TTC Silent Red is the longer option.
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 TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 switch stands out with its distinctive, crisp audible click that provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. This clicky characteristic can be quite engaging for typists who enjoy a pronounced auditory response, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red switch is designed with a muted sound profile that produces significantly less noise, making it ideal for shared environments like offices or living spaces. The Silent Reds minimize the clacky sounds typically associated with mechanical keyboards, promoting a more discreet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a tactile feedback that is both pronounced and satisfying, providing a clear indication of actuation through a tactile bump, which some typists find enhances accuracy and speed. On the other hand, the Silent Red switches provide a buttery, smooth keystroke experience characterized by a fluid motion from top to bottom. This switch is described as mild, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience that caters to a wide range of users. Additionally, the polished quality of the Silent Red's design ensures a refined touch, minimizing friction and contributing to a seamless typing feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch is perfect for those who revel in tactile feedback and enjoy the sound of a click, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch caters to users seeking a quieter and smoother typing experience. Ultimately, each switch has qualities that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer the engaging click of the Box White V2 or the tranquil, buttery feel of the Silent Red. Choosing between the two will depend on whether sound or a more muted experience is a higher priority for your typing sessions.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, your environment and typing preferences will play crucial roles. If you enjoy a tactile and auditory typing experience that provides clear feedback with each keystroke, the Box White V2 is an excellent choice, particularly for personal spaces where the sound of the click can be appreciated. Its light actuation force also caters to typists who prefer a lighter touch when striking keys. On the other hand, if you find yourself in quieter environments such as offices or shared living spaces, the TTC Silent Red is the way to go. Its muted sound profile ensures that your typing remains discreet, making it suitable for situations where noise can be disruptive. Additionally, the Silent Red's smooth and polished feel, combined with its medium-heavy bottom-out force, offers a balanced and comfortable typing experience that many typists cherish. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a tactile, clicky feedback or a silent, buttery smooth experience in your typing journey.
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