Kailh Box Royal vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may be considering the Kailh Box Royal, a tactile switch, or the KTT Laurel, a linear switch. These two switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Box Royal is known for its unparalleled tactility, providing a sharp and binary feedback that is perfect for those seeking an aggressive typing experience. On the other hand, the Laurel offers a medium-light linear switch with a balanced combination of responsiveness and comfort. Its full POM housing and short travel make it an ideal choice for long typing sessions. In terms of sound, the Box Royal produces a relatively higher-pitched profile, while the Laurel delivers a subtly low-pitched tone. However, to make a well-informed decision on the best switch for you, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Laurel switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Box Royal features a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. In contrast, the Laurel utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a slightly muted and deeper sound when typing. While both housings contribute to a round sound, their unique materials give them distinct characteristics.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Box Royal and the Laurel switches also vary in material composition and sound profiles. The Box Royal employs a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the switch's overall sound profile by absorbing more sound. This creates a dully and rounder sound when bottoming out a key. On the other hand, the Laurel utilizes a POM bottom housing, which adds to the switch's unique sound. The POM material contributes to a relatively more muted sound when bottoming out, providing a different experience from the Box Royal.
Considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note that if both the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the two ends of the switch. Pressing down on a switch will primarily exhibit the qualities of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound experienced when letting go of a key will be influenced by the top housing. Therefore, while the Box Royal and the Laurel may have distinct housing materials, they both allow for similar customization of sound profiles through the separate contributions of top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, there are noticeable differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Box Royal requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Laurel only needs 43 grams. This makes the Laurel lighter in terms of actuation force. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box Royal has a heavier force of 70 grams compared to the Laurel's 50 grams. This indicates that the Box Royal provides a more substantial typing experience, while the Laurel offers a lighter touch.
Consideration of weight is crucial as it impacts typing performance in various scenarios. For those who prefer a lighter switch, such as individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, the Laurel with its lower actuation and bottom out forces would be an ideal choice. On the other hand, users who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Box Royal with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Laurel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become more popular recently. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Laurel switch with its slightly shorter travel distance may be more suitable for you. However, it's worth noting that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial key press, the Box Royal switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be a better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, and the decision between them will depend on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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
The Box Royal switch is known for its sharp and binary tactility, providing a nearly aggressive tactile experience. This means that each keypress will have a strong and distinct tactile bump, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a highly tactile switch. In terms of sound, the Box Royal has a relatively higher-pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
On the other hand, the Laurel switch is a medium-light linear switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, the Laurel offers a smooth and snappy typing experience. The sound profile of the Laurel switch is described as subtly low-pitched, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
If you want a switch with a sharp and aggressive tactile feedback, along with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Box Royal would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a smooth and snappy feel, along with a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch would be a better option.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities and cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a similar level of tactility and sound profile, the Laurel switch may provide a comparable experience to the Box Royal in terms of feel and sound. However, it's important to consider other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, as they can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're someone who values an intense and aggressive tactile experience, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force and sharp, binary tactility, you'll feel a distinct and prominent tactile bump with each keypress. Additionally, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile, the Box Royal will provide you with a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a blend of responsiveness and comfort, the KTT Laurel linear switch is a great option. With its light bottom out force and medium-light linear feel, you'll enjoy a smooth and satisfying typing experience. The Laurel's snappy nature, thanks to its longer pole design, ensures that each keypress feels lively and responsive. Furthermore, if you prefer a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel will give you a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box Royal and KTT Laurel switches depends on your personal preferences. Consider whether you crave an aggressive and highly tactile switch with a higher-pitched sound profile, or if you desire a smoother and more responsive typing experience with a low-pitched sound. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs and preferences. In the end, the choice is yours to make.
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