Kailh Box White V2 vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Strawberry present two distinct experiences appealing to different typing preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 switch is a clicky type, celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and satisfying audible click sound, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy an engaging and responsive typing experience. Its pronounced actuation is particularly well-suited for typing enthusiasts and gamers who thrive on auditory cues. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch, characterized as a linear switch, offers a smooth and frictionless experience, appreciated for its polished feel and reliable performance. Its low-pitched actuation provides a quieter alternative, ideal for those who favor speed and fluidity in their keystrokes without the distractions of clicks. Each switch has its merits, catering to different needs and typing styles. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Strawberry switches both feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. This commonality allows them to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when the switch is activated. The use of polycarbonate contributes to the overall clarity and resonance of the sound, making both switches suitable for users who prefer a more pronounced audio feedback while typing. Additionally, both switches offer a translucent appearance, enhancing RGB lighting effects, which can be particularly appealing to gamers and typists who value aesthetics alongside performance. Therefore, when it comes to the top housing, users can expect similar auditory results between the two switches, leaning towards a brighter sound profile infused with visual appeal.
In contrast, the materials used for the bottom housing are distinctly different in the Kailh Box White V2 and KTT Strawberry switches. The Box White V2 uses nylon for its bottom housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile and has a more muted quality compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. This results in a consistent sonic profile across both parts of the switch, emphasizing clarity and sharpness in every keystroke. Consequently, the contrasting housing materials lead to a notable difference in the sound experience between the two switches, with the Box White V2 offering a warmer, rounded sound from the bottom housing.
Overall, the combination of materials in each switch significantly impacts their sound profile and feel during use. The Kailh Box White V2’s nylon bottom housing creates an auditory blend where the soft and mellow sounds from the bottom complement the brighter sounds of the polycarbonate top. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry's all-polycarbonate construction produces a more uniform auditory experience, where the sharper sounds prevail throughout. For typists, this means that the Kailh Box White V2 offers a more nuanced sound experience with its deeper bottom-out feel, while the KTT Strawberry remains crisp and clear throughout the keystroke cycle. Therefore, while both switches may share the same top housing material and produce similar sound characteristics in that regard, their differing bottom housing materials create distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences for the end user.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch with the KTT Strawberry linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Box White V2 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option that may cater well to those who prefer effortless typing over extended periods. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams but a significantly higher bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as a medium weight switch. This difference means that while the actuation feels light and responsive, bottoming out can be more substantial and pronounced. Overall, the Box White V2 exhibits a lighter feel overall, making it preferable for long typing sessions, whereas the KTT Strawberry may appeal to users seeking a more robust bottoming out experience despite its lighter actuation.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer a clear contrast in travel distance, with the Box White V2 measuring 3.6 mm and the Strawberry extending to 4 mm. This difference signifies that the KTT Strawberry provides a slightly deeper actuation point, catering to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience as they press down on their keys. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Box White V2 may appeal to those who prioritize swift key presses and responsiveness, making it an excellent choice for gamers seeking faster reaction times. While both switches cater to different preferences, choosing the Kailh Box White V2 might result in a more abrupt feedback, whereas the KTT Strawberry allows for a more hearty depth in key presses.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch delivers a sharp and distinct audible click, making it easily recognizable and quite satisfying for users who enjoy auditory feedback when typing. This pronounced sound is a hallmark of clicky switches, and it adds a layer of engagement for those who appreciate the auditory signals of their keystrokes. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switch produces a low-pitched sound that is comparatively softer and more muted. This bass-heavy tone contributes to a more understated sound profile, which can be appealing for users who prefer a quieter typing experience that minimizes distractions while still offering feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 provides a noticeable tactile bump coupled with its click sound, creating a feedback-rich experience that many typists and gamers love for its responsiveness. However, the specific tactile characteristics are less defined compared to a linear switch. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is praised for its frictionless, silky, and buttery feel, which provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience. The low resistance and fluid key travel mean that the KTT Strawberries can be incredibly satisfying to type on, allowing for rapid and effortless keystrokes without any hindrance.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Strawberry switches cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard users. While the Box White V2 is ideal for those who enjoy an audible click and tactile feedback, the KTT Strawberry offers a smoother and more polished typing experience devoid of clicks. The choice between these switches ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding sound and feel; if one values the auditory element and tangible feedback, the Box White V2 is suitable, while those seeking a refined, silent experience should gravitate towards the KTT Strawberry.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience characterized by a distinct audible click and a light activation force, the Box White V2 may be your ideal choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it suitable for those who prefer quick, responsive keystrokes, particularly if you appreciate the extra feedback that a clicky switch provides—perfect for typists or gamers who thrive on auditory and tactile cues. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smoother, more fluid typing experience, the KTT Strawberry is likely to be more aligned with your needs. With a slightly higher bottom-out force of 62 grams, these linear switches offer a frictionless and buttery feel that minimizes resistance, making it an excellent option for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where comfort and speed are paramount. The low-pitched sound profile also adds a more subdued auditory element, which can be preferable in quieter environments. In the end, your choice should align with whether you seek the engaging click of the Box White V2 or the seamless smoothness of the KTT Strawberry, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience is tailored to your individual taste.
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