Kailh Box Royal vs. TTC Gold Silver

Overview

When comparing the Kailh Box Royal, a tactile switch, to the TTC Gold Silver, a linear switch, it's important to consider the key characteristics of each. The Box Royal is well-known for its extreme tactility, offering a sharp and binary tactile feedback that is almost aggressive in nature. On the other hand, the Gold Silver from TTC stands out for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel distance, resulting in a solid bottom-out with each keystroke. While the Box Royal has a higher-pitched sound profile, the Gold Silver produces a resonant and harmonious sound, adding to its overall polished and fluid typing experience. Each switch offers unique advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Box Royal excelling in tactile feedback and the Gold Silver providing a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.25 per 10

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

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Housing materials

Overall, the Kailh Box Royal and the TTC Gold Silver switches both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Box Royal using nylon for both top and bottom while the Gold Silver uses polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of the Box Royal results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gold Silver's combination of polycarbonate in the top and nylon in the bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, with the stiffness of polycarbonate leading to a clearer and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the Gold Silver's use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, a feature not present in the Box Royal's all-nylon construction.

While both switches showcase the qualities of their respective housing materials, the split between the top and bottom housings provides unique characteristics to each switch. The impact of the bottom housing material on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced when typing on the switch, allowing users to feel the difference in materials with each keystroke. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, adding to the overall typing experience and providing a tactile and audible response to the user. Despite the differences in the housing materials used, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.

In conclusion, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the TTC Gold Silver ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, feel, and aesthetic features. The Box Royal's all-nylon construction offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Gold Silver's combination of polycarbonate and nylon provides a sharper and crisper sound. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound or a clearer and resonant sound, both switches deliver on their respective qualities based on the materials used in their housings. Overall, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, as each offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.

Weight

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Box Royal has a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Gold Silver's bottom out force is unknown. The Box Royal is considered medium-heavy in terms of overall force required, while the Gold Silver's bottom out force remains a mystery. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of both switches for longer typing periods, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Box Royal for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for weight and typing feel.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Gold Silver the shorter option compared to the Box Royal. The slight difference in travel distance can be crucial for some users, as it can impact the feel and response of the switch. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Silver for faster response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Box Royal with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch is characterized by its high-pitched sound profile, which produces a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch has a thocky sound quality, delivering a deep and rich tone that is satisfying to the ear. The Box Royal's sound is more on the higher end of the spectrum, while the Gold Silver offers a more bass-heavy and mellow sound experience. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, with the Box Royal being more aggressive and sharp, and the Gold Silver offering a smoother and more harmonious sound signature.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch is recognized for its sharp tactile feedback, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver switch offers a polished and silky typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and enhances key travel. The Box Royal's tactile bump is more intense and distinct, catering to those who prefer a stronger tactile sensation, while the Gold Silver switch focuses on providing a seamless and fluid typing experience with minimal resistance and gentle feedback.

In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and TTC Gold Silver switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Royal is best suited for individuals seeking a highly tactile and sharp typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, while the TTC Gold Silver is ideal for those looking for rapid responsiveness, smooth key travel, and a thocky, resonant sound signature. Both switches cater to different preferences, providing unique tactile and auditory experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for tactile intensity, sound profile, and typing feel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, you should consider the level of tactility and sound profile you prefer. If you are looking for a keyboard switch with intense tactility and a higher-pitched sound, the Box Royal is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid responsiveness, smooth key travel, and a thocky, low-pitched sound, the Gold Silver switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure a satisfying typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn more