Kailh Box White vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences are the Kailh Box White and the TTC Gold Pink. The Box White is well-known for its clicky nature, providing maximum audio feedback and a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch with each keystroke. With its resonant and high-pitched characteristics, this switch offers a notably tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch stands out for its lightness, boasting a mere 37g actuation force. These switches are perfect for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience, whether it be for rapid typing or gaming. Despite their lightness, Gold Pinks still offer a satisfying level of feedback, accompanied by a clacky sound. In short, the Gold Pinks deliver a light and lively typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and TTC Gold Pink both share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings. This material creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile, thanks to its stiffness and clarity. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box White and Gold Pink utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will provide a distinct auditory experience characterized by its depth and resonance.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall switch experience, it becomes apparent that the qualities of each housing material are divided between the two parts. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound generated when releasing a key. This distinction allows users to customize their typing experience based on their preferences, whether they prioritize the feeling of pressing down or the sound produced when letting go.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The Box White has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Pink's lighter actuation force of 37 grams. This means that with the Box White switch, one would need to apply slightly more pressure to trigger a keystroke. However, the Gold Pink switch has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Box White requires 60 grams of force to fully press the key.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Gold Pink switch. With its lighter actuation force and bottom out force, it provides a smoother and more effortless keystroke, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing. This would be ideal for individuals using their keyboards for work or engaging in extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience may opt for the Box White switch. Its slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force provide a satisfying tactile feedback, giving a stronger push feel while typing. This can enhance the overall typing experience, especially for individuals who prefer a more pronounced and tactile keystroke sensation.
In summary, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and TTC Gold Pink linear switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White switch is heavier in both categories, while the Gold Pink switch offers a lighter typing experience. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter and effortless feel or a more substantial and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Gold Pink linear switch is slightly longer than the Box White clicky switch. This means that when you press down on a key with the Gold Pink switch, you will feel a slightly greater distance traveled compared to the Box White switch.
When it comes to travel distance, the Gold Pink switch falls into the more traditional range, while the Box White switch is slightly shorter. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making it a preferable choice for them. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt, and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Box White and Gold Pink switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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 switch offers a unique and satisfying audio experience. When typing on these switches, you can expect a "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch sound. The sound profile is clean, sharp, and high-pitched, which produces a crisp and resonant sound. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, you may not find the Box White switch suitable. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink switch does not have any specific sound descriptors mentioned. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the sound qualities of the two switches.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as having an accented tactility and a polished feel. This means that the switch offers a refined and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink switch offers a range of qualities. It is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These descriptors indicate that the Gold Pink switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a gentle resistance. It requires little exertion from the fingers, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, it is suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound signature. Overall, the Gold Pink switch seems to provide a light and lively typing experience with a variety of pleasant qualities.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White switch offers a unique and satisfying audio experience with its crunchy and crisp sound profile, while the TTC Gold Pink switch provides a light and lively typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. If you are looking for maximum audio feedback and a high-pitched sound, the Box White switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you value a fast, effortless, and buttery typing experience, the Gold Pink switch would be more appropriate. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, so it ultimately depends on the individual's preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prioritize maximum audio feedback and enjoy the sound of stepping on autumn leaves, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches offer a satisfying level of feedback and a clean, sharp, and high-pitched sound profile. Additionally, the Box White switches provide a polished feel, characterized by reduced friction and smooth key travel, for a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you value a fast and effortless typing experience, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch would be more suitable. With a light bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches are designed for rapid typing or gaming. They deliver a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound. The Gold Pink switches offer various feel descriptors, including a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing sensation. These qualities make them comfortable for extended typing sessions while maintaining a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel.
Ultimately, the decision between Kailh Box White and TTC Gold Pink switches depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Consider whether you prioritize maximum audio feedback and a high-pitched sound profile or a fast and effortless typing experience with a versatile range of feel descriptors.
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