Kailh Box White vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may be torn between the Kailh Box White and the TTC Silent Red switches. On one hand, the Box White offers a clicky typing experience that provides maximum audio feedback. With a distinct "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and an accented tactility, this switch is perfect for those who crave both sound and feel. On the other hand, the Silent Red switches are ideal for those who prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience without the noise. These switches have a muted sound profile, making them perfect for office or shared living spaces. They offer a consistent feel from top to bottom and even provide a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White Clicky

TTC Silent Red Linear

$2.76 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the TTC Silent Red switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to these switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Kailh Box White and the TTC Silent Red differ in their material choice. The Box White features a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Red opts for the same nylon material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the bottom housing of these switches significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing.

In terms of the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the housing materials contribute differently depending on the action. When pressing down on a key, you will primarily feel the qualities of the bottom housing, which affects the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the sound is more influenced by the top housing. Therefore, while the housing materials may vary, both the Kailh Box White and the TTC Silent Red offer unique characteristics that enhance the typing experience in their own ways.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Firstly, in terms of actuation force, the Box White requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Silent Red requires a slightly lighter force of 45 grams. This means that the Silent Red may feel more responsive and require less effort to activate.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box White requires 60 grams of force to fully press the key down, while the Silent Red has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This indicates that the Silent Red switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience, as it requires a bit more force to fully depress the key.

In general, if someone prefers a lighter switch in terms of weight, the Silent Red would be the better option as it has a lighter actuation force. This can be beneficial for those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, if someone prefers a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Box White might be the preferred choice due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, you may lean towards the Box White with its slightly shorter travel distance. However, if you prefer a deeper, more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys, the Silent Red with its slightly longer distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Box White clicky switch is best known for its maximum audio feedback. When typing on this switch, users experience a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch sound, which is resonant, high-pitched, and crisp in nature. The sound profile is clean, sharp, and immersive. In terms of feel, the Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The switch has reduced friction, allowing for smooth key travel.

On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is perfect for those who prefer a quiet typing experience. These switches have a muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter keystrokes. The Silent Red switch offers a smooth and consistent feel from top to bottom. It is described as buttery, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, these switches have a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort.

In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities for sound and feel. The Box White switch provides a resonant, high-pitched sound profile with a crunchy feel. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch offers a muted sound profile and a buttery smooth feel. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, the Box White switch delivers maximum audio feedback, while the Silent Red switch offers a quiet and smooth typing experience. It is essential to consider other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps to further influence the sound produced by the switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are someone who values maximum audio feedback and enjoys a satisfying tactile sensation, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the way to go. With its medium bottom out force and crunchy sound profile, typing on these switches will remind you of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience and want to minimize noise in shared environments like an office or living space, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is the perfect choice. With its medium-heavy bottom out force, muted sound profile, and smooth, buttery feel, these switches offer a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for audio feedback, noise levels, and typing feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, so choose the one that aligns with your specific needs and requirements.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White Clicky

$2.76 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more