Kailh Box White V2 vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing their preferences between tactile feedback and smooth actuation. The Kailh Box White V2 stands out as a clicky switch, offering a distinctive auditory sharpness along with pronounced tactile feedback that many typists crave for an engaging writing experience. Its crisp click sound not only enhances immersion but also provides clear confirmation with each keystroke, making it an ideal option for those who favor a more interactive typing style. Conversely, the KTT Wine Red switches cater to users who appreciate the subtlety of a linear switch. Known for their pillowy, light touch and a satisfyingly deep sound profile, the Wine Red switches provide a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience, perfect for gaming or long typing sessions where noise distraction should be minimized. Each switch has its own set of advantages catering to different typing styles, so the choice ultimately boils down to personal preference. 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
44g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Wine Red switches, both feature polycarbonate in their top housings, which provides a crisp and resonant sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffer properties, allowing for a sharper, higher-pitched response. This shared characteristic will likely result in similar audio experiences when using RGB lighting, as both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate to enhance the visual display of the light. Consequently, users can expect a clear and vibrant sound signature from both models due to the inherent qualities of the polycarbonate material utilized in the top housing.
However, the differences between the two switches become pronounced in their bottom housings. The Kailh Box White V2 employs nylon, a softer plastic that dampens sound and lends a deeper, fuller quality to the auditory experience. This contrasts sharply with the KTT Wine Red, which also uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing, maintaining that crisp and resonant sound profile consistent with its top. The nylon material in the Box White V2 is particularly effective at absorbing sound waves, resulting in a more muted and rounded bottom-out sound and feel, while the KTT Wine Red, with its polycarbonate bottom, will deliver a more pronounced audible feedback when bottoming out.
Ultimately, this divergence in housing materials leads to a unique experience with each switch. While both switches can provide similar sound qualities when released due to their polycarbonate tops, the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback will differ significantly. The Kailh Box White V2, with its nylon bottom, fosters a fuller and softer sound that is more suited to those who prefer a muted typing experience, while the KTT Wine Red offers crispness and clarity throughout its actuation and release phases. Thus, the choice between these two models dramatically influences the switch's overall performance and the user's tactile and auditory feedback during typing or gaming.
Weight
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch exhibit similar characteristics, but they cater to different preferences due to their actuation and bottom-out forces. The Box White V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, making it on the lighter side. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red features a slightly lower actuation force of 44 grams but a heavier bottom-out force of 55 grams. While both switches offer a light actuation that can facilitate longer typing sessions, the Box White V2 provides a bit more ease in the initial keystroke. However, the Wine Red, with its heavier bottom-out force, may offer a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize a lighter touch and a softer bottom-out, the Box White V2 would be the better option, whereas the KTT Wine Red may suit those who appreciate a little more resistance when fully pressing the keys.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly influence the feel and responsiveness of each switch. The Box White V2, with its shorter travel, may provide a quicker response time, making it a suitable option for gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Wine Red's longer travel distance caters to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke, offering a heartier depth that some users find more satisfying. In summary, the Box White V2 is the shorter option, making it ideal for those who value promptness, whereas the KTT Wine Red offers a longer travel distance for a more deliberate typing experience.
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 Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 switch stands out with its distinct crispness and audible click, providing a pronounced auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find gratifying. The clicky nature of these switches not only enhances the typing experience but also serves as an engaging confirmation of each keypress. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch delivers a deeper, rich sound profile characterized as bassy and low-pitched. This gives the typing experience a more subdued and mellow tone, creating a pleasant auditory experience that might appeal to those who prefer a less intrusive sound while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a sharp, tactile feedback that is immediately noticeable with each keystroke, making it highly favorable for users who enjoy a pronounced response when typing. The tactile bump is crisp and defines key presses clearly, contributing to an engaging experience. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red switch provides a pillowy, smooth feel, evoking sensations of softness as your fingers glide over the keys. This linear switch lacks the tactile bump and click found in its clicky counterpart, offering an uninterrupted and fluid typing experience that many find comfortable for extended use.
In conclusion, while both the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Wine Red switches provide unique auditory and tactile experiences, they cater to different preferences. The Box White V2 is perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced, clicky feedback and sound, while the Wine Red appeals to those who prefer a deeper, more mellow acoustic profile with a fluid feel. Choosing between them ultimately depends on individual typing preferences and the desired user experience, since both switches deliver impactful typing sensations.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the KTT Wine Red switches should be guided by your personal preferences for typing sound, feel, and the type of experience you desire from your keyboard. If you enjoy a more dynamic typing experience characterized by crisp tactile feedback and an audible click, the Kailh Box White V2 is a fantastic option, particularly suited for those who appreciate the distinct sound of each keystroke and prefer a lighter actuation force. This makes it ideal for typists who want to feel more engaged with their typing and enjoy a lively atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience with a rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red switches might be the right choice for you. With their medium-light bottom-out force and pillowy feel, these switches are perfect for those who prioritize comfort and a satisfying auditory experience without the sharpness of a clicky switch. The deeper, bassy tones from the Wine Red provide a mellow typing sound that many find appealing for both gaming and productivity. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you seek a tactile and engaging experience or a smooth and soothing action during your time at the keyboard.
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