Kailh Box White V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the pros and cons of various options. The Kailh Box White V2 switches stand out as a clicky option, renowned for their crisp tactile feedback and an unmistakable audible click that can enhance the typing experience, particularly for those who enjoy a more pronounced response. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches offer a tactile feel with their medium-light actuation force, providing a softer yet satisfying feedback that promotes comfort and reduces typing fatigue during long sessions. While the Box White V2 caters to users seeking an engaging auditory experience, the WS Brown excels in delivering a balanced typing experience that marries familiarity with innovation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.80 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
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-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Brown distinguish themselves primarily through their top housings, showcasing the contrasting acoustic characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon. The Box White V2's polycarbonate top housing is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, which is a result of the stiffness of the material. This stiffer plastic allows for a clearer resonance, making it ideal for users seeking a crisper typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switch, particularly when RGB lighting is used, as it allows the light to shine through beautifully. In contrast, the WS Brown utilizes a nylon top housing, a more traditional choice, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon plays a significant role in sound absorption, leading to a rounder and more muted auditory feedback compared to the Box White V2.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches share the same material—nylon—which underscores their similarities in this aspect. The use of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches generates a fuller sound signature, further dampening noise and enhancing tactile feedback. In this respect, both switches provide a satisfying experience when bottoming out, as the qualities of the nylon contribute to a duller, warmer sound profile. Users can expect a similar auditory output at this stage of keystroke engagement, regardless of the variances in the top housing materials. This highlights the fact that while the top and bottom housings influence sound distinctly, the shared nylon material in the lower portion creates common ground.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in both switches leads to a unique typing experience that is nuanced by their design choices. The Box White V2, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, aims to appeal to those who enjoy a crisp and responsive feel, particularly suited for typing tasks requiring precision. Conversely, the WS Brown's nylon top and bottom prioritize a smoother, deeper sonic experience that might be preferable for users who seek a more subdued and tactile response. Together, they illustrate how the interplay of different housing materials can create diverse auditory and tactile landscapes in mechanical keyboards, catering to varied user preferences. This approach allows mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to choose switches that align more closely with their desired sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. In contrast, while the actuation force of the WS Brown is unknown, its bottom out force is 55 grams, indicating a heavier feel for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. As a result, the Box White V2 can be considered the lighter option, while the WS Brown tends toward medium-light. This difference in weight can significantly influence user preference based on typing style and comfort during long use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, we find distinct differences that cater to varying preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option between the two. In contrast, the WS Brown has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, offering a slightly deeper feel. Gamers might lean towards the Kailh Box White V2 due to its shorter travel distance, which can provide quicker response times, while those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke may prefer the WS Brown for its greater depth. Ultimately, these differences in travel distance can influence the typing experience, appealing to different user preferences in terms of responsiveness and tactile feedback.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 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 switch stands out with its distinct audible click that provides a crisp, satisfying feedback with each keystroke. This clicky characteristic is favored by many who appreciate the auditory confirmation of key presses, making it ideal for typists who enjoy a pronounced auditory experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch offers a softer sound profile that is less intrusive but still presents a delightful auditory experience. While the WS Brown doesn’t produce a click, it delivers a subtle and pleasant tactile feedback that many find to be a gentle reminder of activation without the jarring noise, making it suitable for a quieter environment.
In terms of feel, the Box White V2 switch is noted for its robust tactile feedback, combining a noticeable bump that signifies actuation with the signature click sound. This tactile response can enhance typing precision for those who enjoy feeling each keystroke distinctly. Conversely, the WS Brown switch provides a smooth and gentle tactile feel with a medium-light actuation force, allowing for comfortable and fatigue-free typing during prolonged usage. This balance makes it highly praised among typists who prefer a less jarring experience while still receiving tactile confirmation with each stroke.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Box White V2 is ideal for those who appreciate audible click feedback and a pronounced tactile sensation, while the WS Brown offers a quieter yet still tactile experience, appealing to users who favor a subtler approach without compromising comfort. Your choice between these switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, each offering a distinct typing experience that can elevate your mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a more audible and tactile typing experience, the Box White V2, with its lighter 50-gram actuation force and pronounced click sound, will likely suit you well—especially if you find joy in the feedback and responsiveness it provides. This switch excels in environments where you want to project your enthusiasm for typing, making it great for casual typing or gaming where that sound enhances the experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued auditory experience coupled with a medium-light 55-gram actuation force, the WS Brown is a compelling choice. It’s ideal for longer typing sessions where comfort and reduced finger fatigue are paramount, providing a satisfying tactile response without being overly loud. The WS Brown’s balance of innovation and familiarity accommodates a range of tasks from casual typing to more focused work, making it a versatile option. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your desired auditory feedback, typing technique, and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard, ensuring that your switch not only meets your technical needs but also enhances your overall typing experience.
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