Kailh Box White V2 vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the allure of clicky switches and the smoothness of linear switches, leading to a vibrant debate over which type offers the best experience. On one hand, the Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and audible click, providing an engaging and responsive typing experience that many typists and gamers find satisfying. Clicky switches like the Box White V2 can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction by providing clear auditory and tactile cues with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers offer a refined linear typing experience characterized by a shorter actuation point and a unique long pole stem, allowing for quick and fluid keystrokes devoid of any clicky distraction. Its creamy sound signature also contributes to a pleasant auditory experience, making it appealing for those who prefer a quieter setup. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Box White V2 is perfect for those who cherish feedback and sound, while the Splash Brothers are ideal for users who prioritize speed and smoothness. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a similar auditory experience when typing. Polycarbonate's stiff and transparent nature lends itself to producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a clear and resonant keystroke. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes these switches particularly appealing for users who favor RGB lighting, as the illumination can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the switch. Both switches share this attribute, ensuring that users can expect a comparable auditory and visual experience when using either model.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are crafted from nylon, a material known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a rounder and less piercing sound when bottoming out. This characteristic of the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound signature of each switch; while the top housing determines the initial sound upon key release, the bottom housing significantly affects the sound and feel when the key is depressed. As both switches feature nylon in the bottom housing, users can anticipate a consistent typing experience in terms of depth and roundness of sound.
Ultimately, while the Kailh Box White V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers share the same materials for their top and bottom housings, the implications of these materials on the switches' acoustic profiles are profound. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in each switch leads to an overall harmonious sound experience, blending sharpness from the top with depth from the bottom. Users experimenting with either switch can expect to enjoy a compelling balance between brightness and warmth, ensuring that both models cater to those who appreciate nuanced auditory feedback in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch with the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, we see 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, both of which are considered light, making it suitable for prolonged typing and gaming sessions. In contrast, the Splash Brothers switch has an unknown actuation force, but its bottom out force is slightly lower at 48 grams, also reflecting a light feel. While both switches provide a gentle touch for users who prefer lighter weights, the Box White V2 offers a defined resistance at the actuation point, making it more engaging for typists seeking tactile feedback. Consequently, users who enjoy a stronger, more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Box White V2 for its heavier actuation force, while those looking for a smoother experience might lean toward the Splash Brothers, even without a defined actuation specification.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch exhibit slight differences in their travel distances, with the Box White V2 measuring 3.6 mm and the Splash Brothers at 3.5 mm. While these distances are relatively close, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a bit more depth during keystrokes. This can provide a more pronounced tactile feedback for users who enjoy a hearty sensation when typing or gaming. Conversely, the slightly shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Jwick Splash Brothers might be ideal for gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter travel distances are preferred for quick actions. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, as both facilitate responsive experiences, albeit with subtle variations in key press depth.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its crisp, tactile feedback accompanied by a pronounced audible click, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a distinct auditory cue while typing. This clicky characteristic creates an engaging typing experience that many enthusiasts favor, especially in environments where sound isn't an issue. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a more subdued audio profile described as creamy, providing a neutral sound signature that is gentle on the ears. This makes the Splash Brothers a suitable option for a variety of settings, whether at home or in the office, where a quieter typing experience is a priority.
Regarding the feel of each switch, the Box White V2 provides a strong tactile bump that delivers clear feedback when each key is actuated; this can be highly satisfying for users who prefer definitive physical sensations while typing. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers linear switch is designed for versatility with a mild feel that ensures a gentle typing experience. It combines this with snappy responsiveness due to its long pole stem and an elastic, bouncy feedback that adds liveliness to each key press. Users can expect a polished experience as the design aims for smooth key travel without the noticeable resistance found in more aggressive switch types.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 stands out with its tactile and clicky nature, appealing to those who appreciate auditory feedback and robust typing feel. Meanwhile, the Jwick Splash Brothers offers a more versatile linear option, providing a smooth, creamy sound and a gentle, yet responsive feel, making it approachable for most users. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference for tactile feedback versus a quieter, more fluid typing experience, but both options cater to different typing styles effectively.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch primarily hinges on your typing preferences and the environments in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you enjoy a tactile experience with a distinct audible click that provides crisp feedback, the Box White V2 is an excellent option, especially for typing enthusiasts who appreciate clear actuation cues. This switch is well-suited for home environments where the clicky sound can be enjoyed without disturbing others, making it ideal for gaming or word processing where you want that satisfying auditory response. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother, quieter typing experience with a more subtle feedback, the Jwick Splash Brothers is the way to go. Its linear nature offers a refined feel that is gentle on the fingers while providing quick actuation. This switch shines in shared workspaces or during late-night typing sessions, where a muted sound profile is advantageous. Overall, your decision should reflect whether you favor crisp clicks or a buttery smooth experience while typing, aligning with your personal needs and settings.
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