Kailh Low Profile Choc v2 Key Switches: What Are the Options?
The Kailh Choc v2 was introduced approximately 4 years ago. Comparing to Choc v1 or MX key switches, it has fewer options beyond the classic blue (clicky), red (linear), and brown (tactile) varieties. However, this year, Kailh has begun expanding the Choc v2 catalog. If you own a keyboard that is compatible with Choc v2 switches, there is a wider array of key switch options to choose from now.
What are the differences between Choc v1 and Choc v2 key switches?
While Choc v1 and Choc v2 share the same hotswap sockets, there are distinctions between these two types of key switches. Not all keyboards initially designed for Choc v1 are compatible with Choc v2 switches.
According to Kailh’s datasheet, the dimensions of both Choc v1 and Choc v2 are the same (15mm x 15mm). However, the housing of Choc v2 is slightly taller.
The main difference between the two types of key switches lies in their base. Choc v1 switches have 5 pins, with an additional 2 pins (blue in the diagram above), whereas Choc v2 switches typically feature 3 pins (some Choc v2 key switches may have an additional pin - purple in the diagram above). The 5-pin design of Choc v1 allows some Choc v1 boards to function without requiring a top or switch plate to secure the key switches, whereas it is recommended to use a top plate for Choc v2 key switches.
Furthermore, the center stem of Choc v2 (5mm) is notably larger than that of Choc v1 (3.4mm). This size disparity is one of the primary reasons why certain existing Choc v1 keyboards are not compatible with Choc v2 key switches.
It's also important to note that the stem of Choc v1 and Choc v2 key switches are different, which means that their keycaps cannot be interchanged. Common Choc v1 keycaps include MBK, MCC, and CFX, whereas Choc v2, akin to Cherry MX or Gateron Low Profile switches, utilizes a + stem and is compatible with DSA and SMOLO keycaps.
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What are the Choc v2 key switches options besides the classic one?
Earlier this year, Kailh collaborated with Lofree to launch a new series of Choc v2 key switches. The Lofree Shadow Series showcases three key switches, Wizard (Clicky), Phantom (Tactile), and Ghost (Linear), all crafted from POM materials.
From Kailh Silent to Kailh Deep Sea Mini
Thanks to the Lofree Shadow Series, awareness around the Choc v2 key switches has increased. Subsequently, Kailh introduced its initial Choc v2 Silent key switches and later developed the newest addition, the Kailh Deep Sea Mini, a Choc v2 iteration inspired by its Kailh MX Deep Sea series.
Kailh Deep Sea Mini vs Lofree Shadow Series
In the Lofree Shadow Series, the key switches are entirely crafted from POM, whereas the housing of the Deep Sea Mini incorporates a transparent PC cover. The Lofree design is good for inserting LEDs, while the Deep Sea Mini design is good for SMD RGB LEDs like the SK6812Mini-E.
Additionally, the Deep Sea Mini series features silencing rings. It is worth noting that when the key switch bottoms out, the Deep Sea key switch operates quietly without producing a noticeable sound.
Some additional photo of the Deep Sea MX and Deep Sea Mini key switches
Is there any split keyboard that uses Choc v2 key switches?
If you are interested in trying out these Choc v2 key switches, here are some split keyboards that are compatible with them.
- Corne v4 Choc (hotswappable)
- Cantor MX (soldered key switch)
- Pica40 (soldered key switch)
You can also search "Chocv2" in the useful page https://yal-tools.github.io/ergo-keyboards/ created by YellowAfterlife :)
