Kailh Box Navy vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a heavy typing experience along with a satisfying clicky sound, the Box Navy switches are an ideal choice. These switches not only provide a vintage feel reminiscent of the buckling keyboards from the 80s, but they also offer a distinctive sound signature and tactility that clicky switch enthusiasts would appreciate. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a comfortable and snappy tactile experience, along with a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha switches should be on your radar. These switches are known for their smooth tactility and produce a distinctly clean sound when bottoming out. However, let's take a deeper dive into the characteristics of each switch to help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Matcha switches both make use of polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice results in a similar outcome for both switches, as polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of this plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through. Therefore, whether you opt for the Box Navy or the Matcha, you can expect a comparable sound profile with the use of polycarbonate for the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Box Navy utilizes nylon while the Matcha utilizes polycarbonate. Nylon has long been a popular choice for switch housings due to its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder alternatives, resulting in a slightly duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha aligns with its top housing material, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Therefore, the choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound produced by each switch.
When you press down on either the Kailh Box Navy or the KTT Matcha switch, you will experience the qualities of the respective bottom housing material. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, which means the choice between nylon and polycarbonate will influence the tactile experience of typing. However, once you let go of a key, the top housing comes into play and affects the sound produced. The properties of polycarbonate result in a more distinct and resonant sound when compared to the potential duller sound produced by nylon. Therefore, the top housing material will have a noticeable impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it becomes clear that they offer different experiences. The Box Navy switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, requiring a stronger push to trigger a keystroke, while the Matcha switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to press down. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Navy switch is heavier with 90 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when fully pressed down. In contrast, the Matcha switch is lighter with a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where lighter switches are preferred. These differences in weight cater to the preferences of users who value either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that the Matcha has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Box Navy has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback during use, but the difference in travel distance may affect the overall typing experience. The Matcha's longer travel distance can provide a deeper keypress, which some individuals may prefer for a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the slightly shorter travel distance of the Box Navy may appeal to gamers or those seeking a faster response time. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience. Typing on these switches will create a higher-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. The sound is clean, sharp, and resembles stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch produces a clacky sound when pressed. This switch offers a sharp and snappy sound profile, described as crisp, bright, and percussive. It provides a distinctly clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff experience. The tactile bump is strong, prominent, and can be felt with each keypress. It offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel that immerses you in the typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Matcha switch provides a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel. It offers a two-stage tactile feedback, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The switch is super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, providing a lively typing sensation. It strikes a balance between a medium tactile feel that is not overwhelming nor subtle. Moreover, it offers a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Considering all the available information, the Kailh Box Navy switch emphasizes a heavy typing experience with a vintage sound signature and sharp tactile feedback. It is ideal for those who enjoy a resonant and crunchy sound profile and the feel of a strong and crisp tactile bump. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch focuses on a comfortable and snappy tactility, accompanied by a distinctly clean bottom-out sound. It offers a stepped feel with a balanced amount of tactile feedback and a light actuation force, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. While these switches offer different qualities, they both provide unique and satisfying experiences for enthusiasts. Depending on your preferences and typing style, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, especially if paired with suitable keyboards and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and love the sound signature and tactility of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. Their heftiness and sound signature hark back to the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing feel and a comfortable, snappy tactility, then the KTT Matcha tactile switches are a great choice. The Matcha switches offer a distinctly clean bottom-out sound due to their long pole stem.
In terms of sound, the Box Navy switches provide a resonant and crunchy typing experience, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Matcha switches produce a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive.
When it comes to feel, the Box Navy switches offer a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress. The Matcha switches, on the other hand, provide a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, or subtle feel, depending on your preference. These switches are designed to be super responsive, reducing finger fatigue and offering a comfortable typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Box Navy and Matcha switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel. Both switches have their unique qualities and advantages, so consider your typing style, environment, and desired tactile and auditory feedback when making your decision.
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