Kailh Box Royal vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are several options available, each with its unique characteristics. Two popular tactile switches in the market are the Kailh Box Royal and the Durock Medium Tactile. The Box Royal is known for its extremely tactile experience, offering a sharp and binary tactility that is perfect for those seeking an aggressive feedback. Additionally, the switch emits a relatively higher pitched sound. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile offers a different kind of tactile feel. It features a pronounced yet balanced tactility, creating a satisfying keystroke experience. Moreover, it produces a jelly-like sound signature. While these general pointers can help guide you in making a decision, it's important to delve deeper into the characteristics of each switch to determine which one best suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Durock Medium Tactile switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles. The Kailh Box Royal features a nylon top housing, which tends to absorb more sound due to its softer plastic composition. As a result, typing on switches with nylon top housings creates a deeper and fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder in nature. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is a relatively stiffer plastic. This stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing ensures a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who plan to use RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Kailh Box Royal and the Durock Medium Tactile switches employ nylon as the material of choice. This commonality means that typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will elicit similar sound profiles for both switches. The nylon bottom housing's softness allows it to absorb sound effectively compared to harder plastic alternatives. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is rounder and less crisp. The bottom housing's impact can be felt in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, adding to the overall typing experience.
It should be noted that the difference in top housing material plays a significant role in the sound of a switch when a key is released. The nylon top housing of the Kailh Box Royal contributes to producing a sound that is in line with its deeper and fuller profile. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Durock Medium Tactile contributes to a more distinct sound when a key is let go. This distinction showcases a sharper and crisper sound profile that is characteristic of polycarbonate's stiffness. Thus, while the bottom housings provide similar results, the top housings make a noticeable difference in the sound profiles of these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the Kailh Box Royal requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the exact actuation force of the Durock Medium Tactile is unknown. However, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, indicating that they require a reasonable amount of force to activate.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Kailh Box Royal has a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience compared to its actuation force. In contrast, the Durock Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is slightly lighter. This means that while the actuation force of the two switches may be similar, the Kailh Box Royal offers a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force.
When considering the weight of a switch, personal preferences come into play. Some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, such as the Durock Medium Tactile, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This lighter option would be ideal for those using a keyboard for work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Kailh Box Royal, which provides a heavier actuation force and bottom out force.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Kailh Box Royal and Durock Medium Tactile switches may vary, they both fall within the medium-heavy range. The Kailh Box Royal offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the Durock Medium Tactile offers a slightly lighter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Medium Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Medium Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Royal. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Medium Tactile is more in line with traditional standards, offering a balanced depth for typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Box Royal's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance caters to gamers who value faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes and may be more suitable for competitive gaming. However, for those who prefer a more pronounced key press and a deeper typing experience, the Medium Tactile's longer travel distance may be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch is known for having a relatively higher pitched profile. This means that when pressed, these switches produce a sharp and crisp sound. If you prefer a sound that is not too rich or bassy, the higher-pitched sound of the Box Royal switches would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, there is no specific information provided about the sound of the Durock Medium Tactile switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch is described as having a sharp tactile bump. This means that the tactile feedback of these switches is intense and distinct with each and every keypress. If you prefer a switch with a strong and crisp tactile bump, the Box Royal switches would be a suitable option. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as having an accented tactile feel. This means that it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the Medium Tactile switch is also described as having a stepped feel, which means it has a two-stage tactile experience with pre-travel and/or post-travel. The Mild descriptor suggests that it offers a gentle typing experience, which is approachable to most users. Furthermore, the Polished descriptor indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal switches provide a sharp, binary tactility with a higher-pitched sound profile. They are ideal for those seeking an aggressive tactile experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switches offer a pronounced yet balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature. With a stepped and polished feel, they provide a unique typing experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches have their own distinct qualities and it ultimately depends on personal preference. However, if you are looking for a similar level of tactility, both switches provide a tactile experience, albeit with different characteristics. Similarly, the sound profile can be adjusted based on the choice of board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with an aggressive tactility and a higher pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be an excellent choice. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and a sharp, binary tactility that provides a distinct feedback intensity with each keypress. On the other hand, if you prefer a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile switch would be more suitable. It has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and features an accented tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Medium Tactile switch offers a stepped feel, making it feel more mild in comparison to other tactile switches. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for tactility and sound.
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