Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gazzew U4T provide two distinct yet captivating experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Box White V2 is celebrated for its pronounced audible click and crisp tactile feedback, making it a top choice for those who relish the sensory engagement of each keystroke. This clicky switch delivers an exhilarating typing experience that promotes a sense of precision and clarity, appealing particularly to users who enjoy the auditory affirmation of their actions. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T excels in offering a unique blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, creating a rich sound profile characterized by its deep 'thock' appeal. This tactile switch presents an assertive feedback that enhances the overall satisfaction of typing, catering to those who prioritize a more subdued yet substantial acoustic experience. Each switch has its own charm and can cater to different preferences; while the Box White V2 invites you to enjoy its sharp clicks, the U4T entices you with a plush tactile journey. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gazzew U4T switches differ significantly in their composition and acoustic properties, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when typing. This characteristic makes polycarbonate an excellent choice for those who enjoy RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through the material effectively. In contrast, the U4T employs a proprietary blend often referred to as "boba plastic" for its top housing, delivering a much softer sound profile. While the materials differ in hardness, this softness in the U4T helps to create a richer, deeper sound experience, emphasizing a more muted, nuanced auditory response.
Looking at the bottom housing, both switches embrace the softer side of material selection. The Kailh Box White V2 incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which is notable for its classic reputation among switch enthusiasts. Nylon’s inherent absorbing qualities produce a fuller and deeper sound profile, helping to create a rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the U4T’s bottom housing, like its top, utilizes the proprietary "boba plastic" blend, further enhancing the richness and depth of sound. This similarity in softness allows both switches to create a warm, full bottom-out sound, though the characteristics of the top housing still play a vital role in defining each switch’s overall sound profile.
When comparing these two switches, it becomes apparent that even though the top and bottom housing materials are different for the Kailh Box White V2 and Gazzew U4T, their divergent qualities lead to complementary auditory and tactile experiences. The Box White V2's proclivity for sharper sounds from its polycarbonate top housing contrasts with the U4T’s softer and deeper auditory feedback due to its exclusive "boba plastic" blend. Nevertheless, due to the softness of the nylon and "boba plastic" in the bottom housings, both switches will generate a satisfying, round bottom-out feel, along with a full sound arc when bottomed out. While they cater to different preferences in sound signature, users can find common ground in their enjoyable tactile feedback when interacting with these switches.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the U4T has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, but its actuation force is unlisted. This difference suggests that users seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the U4T for its heavier feel. Consequently, while the Box White V2 provides a lighter touch that promotes comfort for longer use, the Gazzew U4T's heavier characteristic could appeal to those who appreciate a firmer keystroke. Overall, the Kailh Box White V2 is lighter and more suitable for prolonged use, whereas the Gazzew U4T is heavier, providing a different typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the U4T extends slightly further with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the U4T switch offers a longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced keypress for tactile feedback. In contrast, those who favor faster response times, such as gamers, might lean towards the Box White V2 due to its shorter travel distance, providing a more immediate actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, where users seeking a deeper typing experience may prefer the Gazzew U4T, while those wanting a quicker response may opt for the Kailh Box White V2.
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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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 switches are renowned for their crisp, audible click that accompanies each keystroke. This clicky sound profile gives users immediate auditory confirmation of their inputs, creating an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T switches produce a more subdued yet satisfying 'thock' with a deeper, bassy quality. This sound profile resonates with lower frequencies that evoke a sense of depth and richness, similar to a soft thud or knock. While the Box White V2 emphasizes a precise and sharp click, the U4T offers a more calming yet pronounced sound, catering to different auditory preferences.
Regarding feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switches provide a distinct tactile feedback that is both satisfying and pronounced, giving a clear sensation of actuation with every key press. Users can expect a solid tactile response that enhances typing precision. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switches boast a strong and sharp tactile feedback. Their notable tactile bump is prominent, allowing typists to easily notice each key activation. While both switches deliver a tactile experience, the Box White V2 may feel more traditional in its response, whereas the U4T brings an intensity that can feel exhilarating for those who favor strong tactile sensations.
In summary, both the Kailh Box White V2 and Gazzew U4T switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences catered to different preferences. The Box White V2 shines with its sharp, clicky sound and clear tactile response, making it ideal for those who enjoy an engaging and reactive typing experience. Conversely, the U4T provides a deeper, thocky sound and a distinctly sharp tactile feel, perfect for users seeking a richer auditory satisfaction and pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on whether one prioritizes crispness and clickiness or thockiness and enhanced tactility in their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gazzew U4T switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and use case. If you enjoy a lighter switch with an audible and crisp click, perfect for both typists and gamers who appreciate tactile and auditory feedback, the Box White V2 would be a fantastic choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it easier to actuate, which can be beneficial if you spend long hours typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier, more substantial feel with a deeper sound profile that enhances the typing experience, the Gazzew U4T might be more suitable. The 65-gram actuation force paired with its thocky and sharp tactile feedback provides a satisfying experience for those who appreciate a robust key feel and sound. In short, consider the Kailh Box White V2 for its lightness and clicky nature when you seek responsiveness, while the Gazzew U4T is ideal for those who desire a more pronounced tactile experience with a richer auditory feedback. Your ultimate choice should align with your typing style, preferences for sound, and overall comfort during extended use.
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