Kailh Box Navy vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a heavy typing experience and a nostalgic sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are worth considering. With their sharp and resonant clicky feedback, these switches provide an invigorating and crunchy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and faster typing experience, especially for rapid typing or gaming, the TTC Gold Pink switches are a great option. With a low actuation force of 37g, these switches offer a buttery and feathery feel, allowing for effortless typing. While they may lack the loud clicky sound of the Box Navy switches, the Gold Pinks still provide a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed choice and find the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and TTC Gold Pink switches share many similarities when it comes to their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when comparing the top housing of these two switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the switches diverge. The Box Navy features a nylon bottom housing, which is known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gold Pink also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which shares the same characteristics as the Box Navy's nylon housing. Therefore, typing on both switches will offer a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, thanks to the absorbing properties of nylon.
It's important to note that while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a more substantial impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. So, despite having different top housing materials, the Box Navy and Gold Pink switches will provide similar results in terms of the sound when releasing a key. Nonetheless, the distinction lies in the bottom housing, where the nylon material of both switches guarantees a deeper and fuller sound quality thanks to its sound-absorbing properties.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, there are clear differences in terms of weight. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, while the Gold Pink requires a lighter 37 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Box Navy is also heavier at 90 grams, compared to the Gold Pink's 45 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Pink would be a suitable choice. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, it offers a smoother and less forceful keystroke. This can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it reduces fatigue on the fingers. On the other hand, the Box Navy switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces. This can be appealing to users who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more tactile feedback from their keyboard.
In terms of overall weight, the Box Navy switch is considered heavier due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. However, it is worth noting that both switches can still deliver satisfactory results based on the individual's preferences. Whether a user prefers a lighter or heavier touch, they can achieve similar results by selecting the switch that aligns with their desired force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, it is evident that they have different distances. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gold Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm. From this information, it is clear that the Gold Pink has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Navy.
A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional distance, providing a comfortable depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, 3.6 mm is slightly shorter, making it a more suitable option for gamers who value faster response times in their keystrokes.
Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference. If you prefer a more responsive and quicker typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Box Navy would be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a deeper and more satisfying typing sensation, the Gold Pink's longer travel distance would be more suitable. Despite their differences, both switches offer their own unique advantages, allowing users to tailor their keyboard experience to their individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
The Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 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 Navy clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile. Typing on these switches will give you a higher-pitched sound and an immersive auditory experience. The sound profile is clean and sharp, reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors mentioned. However, it should be noted that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. While it is unclear how the Gold Pink sounds, it is safe to assume that it may not provide the same level of auditory satisfaction as the Box Navy.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a sharp and invigorating typing experience. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress, providing a high feedback intensity. They are also described as stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch offers a variety of descriptors for its feel. It is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. They have a gentle typing feel with a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and making them comfortable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is best suited for those who seek a heavy typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile. It provides a sharp and invigorating feel with strong tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is designed for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience. While their sound profile is unknown, they offer a variety of pleasant descriptors for their feel, such as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. Both switches cater to different preferences, and if a similar level of feedback or typing experience is desired, it is recommended to explore switches with similar properties.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience with a clicky switch and enjoy the sound and tactile feedback reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards, then the Kailh Box Navy switches would be the perfect fit for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a satisfyingly hefty typing experience.
On the other hand, if you value a fast and effortless typing experience and prefer a lighter switch, the TTC Gold Pink linear switches are a great choice. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches offer a light and lively typing experience. They are particularly suitable for rapid typing or gaming, providing a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound.
In terms of sound, the Box Navy switches produce a resonant and crunchy sound profile, resembling stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The Gold Pink switches, although not described in the provided information, are likely to offer a more subtle and gentle sound.
In terms of feel, the Box Navy switches offer a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience. The strong and crisp tactile bump can be felt distinctly with each keypress. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switches provide a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. They offer a smooth and fluid keystroke, gentle typing sensations, reduced finger fatigue, and a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switches and the TTC Gold Pink linear switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. Consider whether you prefer a heavy and tactile typing experience with a clicky sound, or a light and effortless typing experience with a subtle sound. Assess your typing needs, whether it be for gaming, rapid typing, or overall comfort. By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your individual needs and preferences.
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