Kailh Box White V2 vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between different mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and TTC Speed Silver stand out for their unique characteristics and benefits. The Box White V2 is celebrated for its clicky feedback, providing not only a satisfying tactile sensation but also a distinct auditory cue with each keystroke, making it a preferred choice for typists and gamers who enjoy that classic sound and feel. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switches offer a linear experience that emphasizes speed and precision, catering to users who prioritize quick actuation and a smooth keystroke without the distractions of sound. With a lighter medium resistance and reduced travel distance, the Speed Silver supports rapid key presses, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or typing. While each switch caters to different preferences—one embracing the nostalgia of a clicky response and the other enhancing speed and fluidity—certain factors can help guide your choice. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Kailh Box White V2 and TTC Speed Silver switches share several similarities in their housing materials, particularly in the construction of their top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their tops, contributing to a sound profile that is characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. This is attributable to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which fosters a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches feature clear housings that enhance aesthetics while allowing for optimized RGB lighting effects. This commonality in their top housing materials means that users can expect a similar auditory quality and visual appeal when utilizing either switch in an RGB-compatible keyboard setup.
Contrasting the top housings, the bottom housings of both switches are composed of nylon, which plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall sound experience. Nylon's softer properties result in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, effectively absorbing more sound and creating a rounded auditory signature. As a classic switch housing material, nylon complements the polycarbonate top by providing balance; while the top generates clarity and brightness, the bottom introduces warmth and depth to the overall sound. Consequently, when using either switch, users will experience a blended sound profile that benefits from both materials — with the nylon bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top emphasizes the release sound.
Given that both switches share identical materials in both their top and bottom housings, one can anticipate a relatively cohesive sound profile that underscores the quality of each component. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon ensures that whether one opts for the Kailh Box White V2 or the TTC Speed Silver, the user experience will reflect the strengths of each material. Overall, while each switch may present its unique aesthetic and tactile feedback, the similarities in housing materials allow for a predictable performance, promising a satisfying typing experience for users who appreciate both clarity and warmth in their key switches.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch to the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we find some notable differences in their bottom out forces, while their actuation forces are exactly the same. Both switches require an actuation force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, making them equally light in this regard. However, the Box White V2 features a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Speed Silver has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while both switches are light when it comes to the actuation needed to register a keypress, the TTC Speed Silver provides a more substantial feel when fully pressed down, which may appeal to users who prefer a stronger tactile experience. Ultimately, the Kailh Box White V2 is the lighter option due to its lower bottom out force, making it potentially more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the TTC Speed Silver offers a heavier feel that some might find more satisfying.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we find that the Box White V2 offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Box White V2 provides a deeper keypress experience, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more robust feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Speed Silver offers a quicker, more responsive action due to its shorter travel distance, making it more suitable for fast-paced gaming scenarios. Therefore, if you favor a more tactile and lengthy feedback, the Kailh Box White V2 would be the better choice, whereas the TTC Speed Silver might be ideal for those who prefer efficiency and rapid key actuation.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
The Kailh Box White V2 is characterized by its crisp, audible click sound that offers a satisfying acoustic feedback on every keystroke. This distinctive click can enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate auditory cues as they type. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switches produce a more subtle sound profile that is generally quieter, catering to users who might prefer less noise during their typing sessions. However, the actual sound of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycap materials, so achieving a desired acoustic environment will depend on the setup.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 provides a pronounced tactile bump that many users find engaging and satisfying, delivering a clear indication of each key actuation. This tactile feedback makes it easier to identify successfully registered keystrokes, which can enhance typing accuracy. Conversely, the TTC Speed Silver switch has a mild feel that offers a more gentle typing experience. It's designed for rapid actuation, which might appeal to competitive gamers or fast typists who prioritize speed over tactile feedback. While the Speed Silver provides a lighter touch, the overall experience is one of smoothness and speed rather than distinct tactile bumps.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a clicky and tactile experience ideal for those who enjoy pronounced feedback and auditory cues. The TTC Speed Silver, while quieter, provides a smooth and fast typing experience with a mild feel aimed at enhancing performance in fast-paced environments. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel; both switches can deliver satisfying results, yet they cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Kailh Box White V2 clicky switches and TTC Speed Silver linear switches ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a tactile feedback and the satisfying auditory response that comes with a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box White V2 is likely the better choice for you. With its 50-gram bottom out force, it offers a light and responsive feel, making it ideal for typists who enjoy a more engaging and active typing experience. This switch is particularly suited for writing, coding, or gaming scenarios where tactile input and sound can enhance your interaction with the keyboard. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and smoothness in your keystrokes, the TTC Speed Silver is the way to go. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams and a reduced travel distance, this linear switch gives you the ability to type quickly and efficiently. Its mild characteristics provide a gentle typing experience that many find approachable and comfortable for prolonged use, especially for fast-paced gaming or no-frills typing tasks. In essence, choose the Kailh Box White V2 for an engaging and feedback-rich experience, while opting for the TTC Speed Silver if your focus is on swiftness and smooth performance.
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