KTT Ash Gray vs. Kailh Box Royal
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Box Royal switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Box Royal. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, offering a light touch combined with crisp actuation. It strikes a balance between tactile feedback and avoiding an overwhelming sensation. On the other hand, the Box Royal switch is known for its sharp, binary tactility, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a nearly aggressive tactility. These switches also have a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. Choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Box Royal switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles and aesthetics. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Box Royal utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
Comparing the bottom housings of the Ash Gray and Box Royal switches, both employ nylon as a classic switch housing material. This choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. However, the impact of the bottom housing differs between the two switches. For the Ash Gray, the qualities of the bottom housing influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Similarly, the Box Royal's nylon bottom housing enhances the sound and feel while typing. So, while the materials are the same, their effects are experienced differently.
In terms of overall sound production, the KTT Ash Gray and Kailh Box Royal switches diverge in their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray offers a sharp and resonant sound when letting go of a key, while the nylon top housing of the Box Royal produces a deeper and fuller sound in the same scenario. Both switches prioritize sound quality, but the specific characteristics of their housing materials create unique experiences for the typist. Regardless, individuals seeking switches with distinct sound profiles will find satisfaction in either the Ash Gray or Box Royal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, whereas the Box Royal requires a slightly heavier force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch may find the Ash Gray more suitable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Box Royal's heavier actuation force provides that satisfying tactile feedback. Moving on to the bottom out forces, the Ash Gray requires 53 grams of force to fully press down, while the Box Royal requires a heavier force of 70 grams. This indicates that users will feel a more significant resistance and a more pronounced bottoming-out sensation when using the Box Royal switch. In summary, the Ash Gray switch offers a medium-light actuation and bottom out force, while the Box Royal switch provides a medium-heavy experience. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, offering varied results to users based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch, the Ash Gray has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Box Royal has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common. However, with the increasing popularity of shorter travel distances for gaming purposes, the Ash Gray may be favored by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer the heartier depth offered by the Box Royal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25 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
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is known for providing a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive. When typing on these switches, users will experience a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming but far from unnoticed. The sound profile of the Ash Gray switch is neutral, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use it at home or work. The feel of the Ash Gray switch is easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Overall, the Ash Gray switch enhances the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel.
On the other hand, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is designed to provide an almost aggressive tactility. These switches have a sharp, binary tactility that is prominent and can be distinctly felt with each and every keypress. The sound profile of the Box Royal switch is high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, these switches may not be for you. However, if you enjoy a higher-pitched sound, the Box Royal switches are a perfect choice.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press feel, making it suitable for most users and offering a low-impact typing experience. On the other hand, the Box Royal switch has a high-pitched sound profile and a sharp, intense tactility, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more aggressive typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a similar sound and feel to the Ash Gray, the Box Royal may not provide the same results. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a blend of tactile feedback that is substantial yet unobtrusive, the KTT Ash Gray switch would be an excellent choice for you. This switch delivers a light touch with a crisp actuation, providing a delightful typing experience that is not overwhelming but far from unnoticed. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and can be used in both home and work environments.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a nearly aggressive tactility, the Kailh Box Royal switch would be the perfect fit. These switches are known for their sharp and binary tactile feedback, providing a highly satisfying typing experience. The Box Royal switch also has a high-pitched sound profile, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, catering to those who prefer a less rich and bassy sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and Kailh Box Royal switches depends on your personal preferences. If you value a lighter touch and a more neutral sound profile, the Ash Gray switch would be the ideal option. However, if you desire a heavier touch and a sharper tactile feedback with a higher-pitched sound, the Box Royal switch would be the better choice for you. Both switches offer their own unique typing experience and can greatly enhance your overall enjoyment while using a mechanical keyboard.
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