Kailh Box Navy vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT MoonRosa present unique options for enthusiasts seeking different typing experiences. The Box Navy stands out for its heavy typing experience, distinctive sound signature, and pronounced tactility, making it ideal for those who enjoy clicky switches reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. In contrast, the MoonRosa switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile due to its all-POM construction, catering to users who prefer a quieter linear switch. These general characteristics provide a starting point for choosing between the two switches; 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
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT MoonRosa, both switches feature a unique sound profile attributed to their respective materials. The Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound, while the MoonRosa's POM top housing offers a deeper and relatively more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience through their distinct acoustic properties.
However, the difference in material extends to the bottom housing as well. The Box Navy utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature. On the other hand, the MoonRosa's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and muted sound. While the specific acoustic characteristics may differ slightly between the two switches, both materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience by offering a unique sound profile that appeals to users seeking a specific auditory feedback.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Box Navy versus POM in the MoonRosa results in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The use of these materials in both the top and bottom housing of each switch highlights the attention to detail in creating a well-rounded typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both the Box Navy and MoonRosa offer options that prioritize sound quality and tactile feedback for users to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, it is evident that the Box Navy is heavier in both aspects. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a significant push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the MoonRosa is lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch to type for longer periods of time. The difference in weight between the two switches offers a variety of options for users based on their preferences. Both switches deliver similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the KTT MoonRosa linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to everyone, but for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes, the Box Navy switch may provide a more satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more responsive and quicker keystroke, the MoonRosa switch's slightly shorter travel distance may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50, whereas the KTT MoonRosa comes in at $4.88.
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 typing experience, with a high-pitched and sharp sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling spring keyboards. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa switch provides a low-pitched and mellow sound signature due to its POM construction. Depending on your preference for sound, the Box Navy switch may be more immersive and intense, while the MoonRosa switch offers a more subtle and neutral typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is known for its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate compared to other switches. This intense feedback can enhance the typing sensation for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience. Conversely, the KTT MoonRosa switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, with gentle resistance and light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing sessions. If you prefer a softer and more approachable typing feel, the MoonRosa switch may be more suitable for you.
Overall, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy switch provides a resonant and crunchy typing experience with sharp tactile feedback, ideal for those seeking a heavy and tactile typing sensation. Alternatively, the MoonRosa switch offers a low-pitched and mellow sound signature with a mild and easy-to-press feel, catering to users who prefer a smoother and more gentle typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences, albeit with different characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing intensity.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, consider your preference for typing force and sound profile. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a crisp clicky sound, the Box Navy switches with their 90-gram bottom out force and resonant, crunchy sound profile are a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing force and a smoother, low-pitched sound, the MoonRosa switches with their 45-gram bottom out force and mild, easy-to-press feel may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound experience.
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