Kailh Box White vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch, and the TTC Gold Silver, a linear switch. The Box White is renowned for its satisfying click and tactile feedback, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, while the Gold Silver is praised for its rapid responsiveness and smooth keystrokes. Those who appreciate maximum audio feedback may lean towards the Box White, while individuals seeking a seamless blend of speed and fluidity might find the Gold Silver more appealing. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, both the Kailh Box White and the TTC Gold Silver feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. While both switches share this common feature, they may differ in the material used for their bottom housings.
In contrast, the Box White and the Gold Silver both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite having different bottom housing materials, the switches may still offer similar typing experiences in terms of sound and feel, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the Kailh Box White and the TTC Gold Silver may differ in their bottom housing materials, they both offer unique qualities in terms of sound profiles and typing experiences. The use of polycarbonate for the top housing creates a sharp and clear sound, while nylon in the bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with a stiffer top housing or a deeper sound with a softer bottom housing, both switches provide options for a customizable typing experience depending on your preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Box White has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Silver's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Box White is 60 grams, while it is unknown for the Gold Silver. This means that the Box White switch requires a slightly heavier touch to activate the keystroke, but both switches have a similar actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gold Silver may be more suitable, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Box White. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and TTC Gold Silver linear switch both have relatively short travel distances compared to traditional switches. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the Gold Silver's 3.5 mm. Both switches are favored by gamers for their shorter travel distances, which provide faster response times. However, some may find the shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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
When comparing the sound qualities of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, the Box White switch is known for its high-pitched, resonant, and crunchy sound profile, akin to stepping on autumn leaves. This tactile switch provides a clean and sharp auditory experience that some find immersive. On the other hand, the Gold Silver switch is described as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral in sound. It delivers a deep, rich tone with a satisfying thud, making each keystroke feel impactful and harmonious. While the Box White offers a more high-pitched and crunchy sound, the Gold Silver provides a low-pitched and thocky sound, catering to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of feel, both the Kailh Box White and TTC Gold Silver switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This suggests reduced friction, smooth key travel, and an overall sleek feel when using either switch. Additionally, the Gold Silver switch is also described as silky, mild, and subtle in feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with gentle resistance and a sound signature suitable for shared spaces. Overall, both switches offer a polished and smooth typing experience, with the Gold Silver switch also encompassing additional qualities that enhance typing comfort and ease.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch present unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Box White switch offers a high-pitched and crunchy sound with an accented tactility, the Gold Silver switch delivers a thocky, low-pitched sound with rapid response and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a polished and smooth typing experience, making them suitable choices for those seeking distinct qualities in their mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines: if you desire maximum audio feedback with a crunchy sound profile, opt for the Box White. Its medium bottom out force combined with a resonant and high-pitched sound signature make it a top choice for those who appreciate a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid responsiveness and smooth, fluid keystrokes with a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the Gold Silver is the switch for you. Its unknown bottom out force and unique blend of speed, sound, and precision offer a different but equally satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
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