Kailh Box White vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box White clicky switch to the TTC Venus linear switch, one can immediately notice the distinct differences in their key features. The Box White is favored for its maximum audio feedback, providing a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and sharp tactility while typing. In contrast, the Venus offers a unique internal configuration that prioritizes a seamless, frictionless glide paired with a springy resistance akin to biting into a chewy mochi. While the Box White is categorized as resonant and high-pitched, the Venus is characterized by its buttery, gummy feel and muted sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more tactile, crunchy typing experience or a smoother, quieter one. 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
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the TTC Venus, we see that the Box White features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. On the other hand, the Venus utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can cater to different preferences, with the Box White offering a sharp and crisp sound, while the Venus delivers a more rounded and pleasing sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Box White utilizes a nylon material, known for creating a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is distinct from the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. In comparison, the Venus features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with its top housing material in creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This consistency in material leads to a more uniform sound experience across the switch.
Overall, while the Kailh Box White and TTC Venus have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Box White's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom creates a contrast between sharpness and depth in sound, while the Venus's consistent use of POM and polycarbonate results in a more uniform sound experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile or a deeper and more muted sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is evident that the Box White has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Venus's 45 grams. However, the Box White also has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Venus has a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that the Box White provides a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel, while the Venus offers a lighter touch for those who prefer typing for longer periods without strain. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-light category, making them suitable for a wide range of users depending on their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular for their quick responsiveness, especially among gamers. The Box White switch offers a slightly quicker keystroke with its shorter distance, making it ideal for those seeking a fast response time. On the other hand, the Venus switch provides a bit more depth to each keystroke, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Overall, while the Box White has a marginally shorter travel distance, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance and can be chosen based on personal preference for feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White switch is known for its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy auditory profile, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch offers a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound signature. The Box White switch provides a more immersive and sharp sound experience, while the Venus switch delivers a softer and quieter typing experience. The choice between these two switches would depend on whether you prefer a more vibrant and clicky sound (Box White) or a more subdued and muted sound (Venus).
In terms of feel, the Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the contrary, the TTC Venus linear switch provides a buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished feel. The Venus switch promises a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation with minimal resistance or friction, making it ideal for those looking for a smooth keystroke experience. Meanwhile, the Box White switch's polished finish ensures a sleek typing experience with enhanced smoothness and refined key travel. Depending on whether you prefer a smoother and more fluid typing experience (Venus) or a refined and polished typing sensation (Box White), you can make an informed decision based on feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White switch provides a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile along with a polished typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory feedback and refined key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch delivers a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound signature coupled with a buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel, perfect for individuals seeking a quieter typing experience with smooth and uniform key presses. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound feedback (Box White) or tactile feel (Venus) in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a tactile and clicky feedback with a medium bottom out force, the Box White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter actuation with a unique "Q-texture" feel, the Venus switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and desired sensory experience.
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