Kailh Box White vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer unique typing experiences. The Box White switch is a clicky switch, designed for those who crave maximum audio feedback with each key press. Typing on the Box White switch yields a distinctive "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and a pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch from Gateron is a linear switch that prioritizes silent typing. Its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure provide unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. While the Box White switch excels in producing a satisfying click and tactile response, the Zero Degree 0° switch focuses on delivering a quiet and smooth 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiff nature, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, both switches are ideal for use with RGB lighting due to the translucency of polycarbonate. The similarity in top housing material ensures that both switches will offer a similar sound experience, especially when it comes to typing sounds and overall feel.
In contrast, the Box White and the Zero Degree 0° differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Box White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° also features a nylon bottom housing, offering the same deep and full sound characteristics. Despite the difference in top housing materials, the similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and feel.
Overall, while the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° differ slightly in their choice of housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Box White or a rounder sound with the Zero Degree 0°, both switches offer a premium typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch with 45 grams. However, the Box White also has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams while the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° switch is unknown. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Zero Degree switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Box White for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, catering to a variety of user preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches offer a consistent travel distance when pressing down on the key, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. Despite having the same travel distance, the mechanisms of the clicky and linear switches differ, with the Box White providing a tactile and audible click when actuated, while the Zero Degree 0° offers a smoother and quieter keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their different characteristics, with the Box White being more tactile and clicky, and the Zero Degree 0° providing a smoother linear feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 clicky switch is known for its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy characteristics, providing a satisfying auditory experience akin to stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch boasts a silent typing experience with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, reducing noise and delivering a soft, elastic feel. While the Box White switch offers a more vibrant and distinctive sound profile, the Zero Degree 0° switch focuses on minimal sound output, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, specific details on the tactile feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch are not available. However, the emphasis on smoothness and stability in its design suggests a consistent and comfortable typing experience without the tactile feedback typically associated with clicky switches.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White switch excels in providing a crisp and tactile typing experience with a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy audibly satisfying keypresses. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch focuses on delivering a silent and smooth typing experience, prioritizing stability and comfort. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, both switches cater to different needs and preferences in the vast world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you are someone who values maximum audio feedback and a tactile typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Box White might be your top choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Zero Degree 0° linear switch could be the better option for you. Consider the sound and feel profiles described for each switch to determine which aligns best with your preferences and needs. Ultimately, your choice should be based on what type of typing experience you enjoy the most.
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