Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Weightlessness present two distinct yet appealing options for different types of users. The Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its clicky nature, providing an audibly satisfying click and pronounced tactile feedback that many typists find satisfying and reassuring, making it ideal for those who thrive on the sensation of every keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch offers a more subdued tactile feel, delivering a smooth typing experience with a moderate sound profile that balances performance and acoustics, appealing to users who prefer a less intrusive typing environment. While the Box White V2 might attract gamers and typists who enjoy the crisp feedback, the Gateron Weightlessness may appeal to those who seek a more versatile switch for both typing and casual gaming. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Weightlessness, distinct differences in sound profile emerge from their selection of plastics. The Kailh Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and clarity, which generates a sharper and more resonant sound when typing. This characteristic is especially pronounced in RGB setups, as the transparent nature of polycarbonate allows for effective light dispersion. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness incorporates a nylon top housing, which effectively absorbs sound and contributes to a noticeably deeper and rounder sound profile, giving a softer auditory experience when typing.
Both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a fuller sound profile in each case. The consistency of using nylon in the bottom housing of both switches means that users can expect a similar impact on the sound quality when bottoming out. This similarity underlines the role of the bottom housing in shaping the sound experience; since both switches utilize nylon, they will provide a comparable depth to the auditory feedback regardless of the differing top housings. Thus, while the Kailh Box White V2 might generate a crisper sound during release due to its polycarbonate top, the fullness added by the nylon bottom will unify the collective auditory experience of both switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Weightlessness will hinge on the user's preference for sound characteristics and tactile feedback. The distinct use of materials leads to varied auditory profiles—sharp and clear versus deep and rounded—while the shared nylon bottom housing provides a consistent base for sound absorption. Users seeking a bright, resounding feedback may lean towards the Box White V2, whereas those preferring a smoother, fuller typing experience may opt for the Weightlessness. However, despite their differences, both switches offer rich and layered typing experiences shaped by their unique and shared material qualities.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Box White V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier on the fingers during prolonged typing sessions or intense gaming marathons. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, offering a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a firmer typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Gateron Weightlessness is unspecified, which makes it difficult to fully assess how hard it feels when the switch is fully depressed. Given the specifications, if you prioritize a lighter feel, the Kailh Box White V2 would be the superior choice, while the Gateron Weightlessness would cater to those who enjoy a heavier keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, we find that the Box White V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Weightlessness measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This means that if you're seeking a more responsive feel, the Gateron Weightlessness with its shorter travel distance might be the preferable choice, especially for gamers who favor quicker actuation. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial depth in their typing experience may gravitate towards the Kailh Box White V2, as its longer distance provides a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance, albeit slight, caters to different preferences in typing experience and response times.
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 Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 switch delivers a prominent and sharp auditory experience, characterized by its crisp click that stands out distinctly with each keystroke. This clicky sound provides an engaging feedback loop for typists and gamers alike, ensuring each actuation is both satisfying and noticeable. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch presents a more subtle sound profile that is balanced and harmonious, aligning with its tactile character. While the Weightlessness switches provide a tactile experience, their sound is moderate, making them less intrusive, which can be ideal for quieter environments or for users who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switches are celebrated for their pronounced tactile feedback, making each keystroke feel impactful and deliberate. This switch design ensures that typists can easily feel when the actuation point is reached, contributing to a confident typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch offers a more understated tactile sensation that allows for smoother transitions between key presses. This tactility is subtle to moderate, promoting a comfortable typing experience suitable for extended use without the harsher feedback found in clicky switches.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Weightlessness switches cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard realm. The Box White V2 stands out with its crisp clicky sound and pronounced tactile feedback, making it great for those who love auditory cues and clear actuation. Conversely, the Weightlessness switches provide a more balanced sound and a gentler tactile feel, appealing to users who favor a quieter and smoother experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can lead to satisfying and pleasant typing experiences, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch depends largely on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback and tactile sensation while typing, the Box White V2 is an excellent choice, offering a crisp click and tactile feedback that many typists find satisfying. Its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams also caters well to users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. In contrast, if you lean towards a more subdued typing experience with a focus on subtlety, the Gateron Weightlessness switch may be the better option for you. Its moderate tactile feedback is ideal for users who appreciate a gentle bump without the loud click, providing a balanced sound profile that can be pleasant in quieter environments. In essence, selecting the Box White V2 will make you feel alert and engaged with each keystroke, whereas opting for the Weightlessness switch may give you a smoother and more refined typing experience, making it less intrusive in shared spaces. Ultimately, consider your typing style and the environment in which you use your keyboard to determine which switch will best suit your needs.
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