Kailh Box Navy vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound, then the Kailh Box Navy is the perfect fit for you. These switches offer a vintage feel reminiscent of buckling keyboards from the 80s, with their weightiness and distinctive sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch may catch your attention for its visual appeal, but there is much more to these switches than meets the eye. The use of progressive springs in the Rose switches creates a unique typing experience that feels substantial without being overly heavy. Typing on these switches produces a bassy raindrop-like sound, adding an element of serenity to your typing experience. The Box Navy switches are categorized as sharp, resonant, invigorating, crunchy, and stiff, while the Rose switches offer a low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision regarding the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Rose switches both have polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences from both the Box Navy and the KTT Rose switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Box Navy and the KTT Rose switches utilize a nylon material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. With both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the Box Navy and the KTT Rose switches differ in material, their overall qualities are divided between the two. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Understanding this division can help users better appreciate the nuances in sound and tactile feedback between the two switches.
In summary, the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Rose switches share similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches produce a sharper and crisper sound, enhanced by the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings in both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, attributed to the sound-absorbing properties of the softer plastic. While the division of qualities between the top and bottom housings provides some divergence in the typing experience, users can expect a comparable sound and feel between the Box Navy and the KTT Rose switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it is clear that there are notable differences. The Box Navy switch has an actuation force of 60 grams, requiring a moderate level of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Rose switch is unknown. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Box Navy switch is 90 grams, indicating a heavy and substantial typing experience. The Rose switch, in comparison, has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heav
y.
The weight of these switches is worth considering as it can significantly impact the typing experience. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as it enables them to type for longer periods comfortably, making them ideal for work environments or extended gaming sessions. However, others may prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, and thus would opt for switches with heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
In terms of actuation force, as the Rose switch's exact force is unknown, its comparison to the Box Navy switch cannot be made. Nevertheless, if the actuation forces of both switches are similar, then users can expect similar results when it comes to triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Box Navy switch is noticeably heavier with its 90-gram force, while the Rose switch offers a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preference and typing style. Those seeking a heavier and more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, whereas individuals who prefer a slightly lighter touch may find the KTT Rose linear switch more suitable for their needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the KTT Rose linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Rose switch is longer than the Box Navy switch. The Box Navy's travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a better option for gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Rose switch provides a slightly deeper keystroke, which some individuals may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the Box Navy offering more responsiveness and the longer travel distance of the Rose switch providing a deeper key press.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01.
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 Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Rose linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy switches are well-known for their heavy typing experience and distinctive sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. When typing on these switches, you can expect a resonant and sharp sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the Box Navy switches offer a sharp and invigorating feel with a strong and crisp tactile bump, creating an intense and reactive typing sensation.
On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switches provide a different sound and feel experience. These switches feature progressive springs, which offer a uniquely substantial, yet not heavy, typing experience. When typing on the Rose switches, you will hear a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a pleasant and calming auditory experience resembling bassy raindrops. In terms of feel, the Rose switches provide a mild and approachable typing experience with a gentle and polished feel. The qualities of these switches stand in a safe middle-ground zone, making them suitable for most intents and purposes.
To conclude, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switches and the KTT Rose linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy switches provide a resonant and sharp sound profile with a heavy and invigorating feel, while the Rose switches offer a low-pitched sound profile with a mild and polished feel. Depending on your preferences, the Box Navy switches are recommended for those seeking a heavy and intense typing experience, while the Rose switches provide a unique and calming typing experience. If you are looking for similar results to either switch, consider factors such as your choice of board and keycaps, as they can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 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. The Box Navy switches offer a resonant and crunchy sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience that mimics stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The sharp and invigorating feel of the Box Navy switches provides a high-feedback intensity and a snappy typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more moderate and bass-heavy typing experience, the KTT Rose linear switches are an excellent choice. The progressive springs in the Rose switches offer a uniquely substantial, yet not heavy, typing experience. You can expect a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which enhances the bass-heavy and mellow tone. The Rose switches also provide a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switches and the KTT Rose linear switches depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a heavy and tactile experience with a resonant and crunchy sound, go for the Box Navy switches. If you prefer a more moderate and bass-heavy typing experience with a gentle and refined feel, the Rose switches are the way to go. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired key feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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