Kailh Box White vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch, and the TTC Gold Red Pro, a linear switch, it's important to consider the distinct qualities each switch has to offer. The Box White is favored by those who seek maximum audio feedback, with a distinct "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and pronounced tactility while typing. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro linear switch provides a smooth and seamless typing experience, with a neutral sound signature that is neither too loud nor too quiet. The versatility of the Gold Red Pro makes it suitable for various settings, from gaming to office work. 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
43g
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
3.80 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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and TTC Gold Red Pro switches, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics from both switches when it comes to their top housings.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Box White and Gold Red Pro switches are made from nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. Despite the differences in their bottom housings, the use of nylon in both switches ensures that users will experience a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will affect the sound when a key is released. By understanding the role of each housing material, users can better appreciate how the combination of materials in switches like the Box White and Gold Red Pro contribute to their overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, one can see a clear difference in weight. The Box White has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Red Pro's 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Box White is also heavier at 60 grams, whereas the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Box White switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gold Red Pro would be the better option, as it requires less force to actuate. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Box White switch would be ideal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired actuation force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which falls on the shorter end of the spectrum compared to the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, which has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. If you're looking for a quicker response time and a more rapid keystroke experience, the Box White switch may be the better option for you due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial keypress and deeper feeling when typing, the Gold Red Pro switch with the longer travel distance could be more to your liking. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the main difference being the distance the switch travels from top to bottom. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro 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 Red Pro 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a resonant and high-pitched profile, providing a crisp and immersive auditory experience akin to stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch boasts a thocky and low-pitched sound, delivering a deep and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when pressed. While the Box White appeals to those seeking maximum audio feedback with its pronounced sound signature, the Gold Red Pro offers a neutral sound profile suitable for various environments.
When it comes to feel, both the Box White and Gold Red Pro switches are described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Gold Red Pro is highlighted for its silky and mild characteristics, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and providing a gentle typing experience accessible to most users. The Box White, on the other hand, is noted for its accented tactility, adding to the tactile feedback experienced during typing sessions.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch excels in providing a resonant and high-pitched sound profile coupled with a polished and accented tactile feel, making it ideal for those who prioritize maximum audio feedback and tactile response. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch showcases versatility with its neutral sound signature, polished feel, and ease of press, catering to users of varying preferences and environments. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box White clicky switch or the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a tactile and clicky typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a resonant, high-pitched sound profile, then the Box White may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and versatile typing experience with an unknown bottom out force and a neutral, thocky sound profile, then the Gold Red Pro could be the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and environments, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you.
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