Kailh Box Royal vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal and the Bsun Hutt mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both switches offer unique tactile experiences for users. The Box Royal is renowned for its sharp, binary tactility, making it ideal for those seeking an aggressive tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt features a medium-heavy spring and a prominent tactile bump, providing a balanced and enjoyable typing experience. While the Box Royal has a higher-pitched sound profile, the Hutt switch offers a more invigorating and resonant sound. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Bsun Hutt, we see a clear distinction between the two. The Box Royal utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Hutt features a polycarbonate top housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. While both materials are known for their sound-dampening properties, they offer different tonal qualities to the typing experience. The translucent quality of polycarbonate is also noted for its compatibility with RGB lighting, giving an aesthetic edge to the Hutt switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box Royal and the Hutt employ nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still exhibit differences in sound and feel due to variations in design and construction. Overall, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, though small nuances may still be present.
One key aspect to consider when comparing the housing materials of these switches is the impact each housing layer has on the overall sound and feel of typing. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key. This division of qualities between top and bottom housings can result in a unique typing experience for each switch, despite similarities in the materials used. Whether it's the deeper and fuller sound of a nylon bottom housing or the sharper and crisper sound of a polycarbonate top housing, each material brings its own distinct characteristics to the typing experience for the Kailh Box Royal and Bsun Hutt switches.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a higher bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the lighter Bsun Hutt tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams and a lower bottom out force of 49 grams. This means that the Box Royal switch will provide a more substantial typing experience, while the Hutt switch will offer a lighter touch, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have their advantages, with the Box Royal catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Hutt is better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches are considered to have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers might appreciate the quicker response time of the Bsun Hutt switch, while those who prefer a deeper key press experience may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal switch. Overall, both switches offer a similar typing experience with minimal differences in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
The Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Royal offers a high-pitched sound profile, producing sharp and crisp tones with each keypress. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt provides a resonant sound, giving a higher-pitched and clean auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, but the Box Royal may suit those who prefer a sharper tone, whereas the Hutt may appeal to those looking for a more immersive sound.
When it comes to feel, the Box Royal is known for its sharp and intense tactile feedback, featuring a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Hutt is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience with moderate to firm actuation force and a reactive feel. Additionally, the Hutt switch is noted for its invigorating sensation and accentuated tactility, providing a balance between feedback intensity and responsiveness. Overall, both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Box Royal emphasizing sharp feedback and the Hutt focusing on responsiveness and tactility.
Comparatively, while the Kailh Box Royal and Bsun Hutt tactile switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, they both excel in providing users with a tactile typing experience. The Box Royal is ideal for those seeking aggressive tactility and a high-pitched sound profile, while the Hutt appeals to users looking for a balanced tactile bump and a resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound pitch, tactile feedback intensity, and typing responsiveness. Whether opting for the Box Royal or the Hutt, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinctive qualities tailored to their preferences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Kailh Box Royal and the Bsun Hutt tactile switches, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and an aggressive tactility with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Box Royal switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a prominent tactile bump, and a balanced sound profile, the Bsun Hutt switches would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, so it's important to consider what feels more comfortable and responsive to you. Happy typing!
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