Kailh Box Royal vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Meteor White. These switches offer distinct features and appeal to different preferences. The Box Royal is renowned for its unparalleled tactility, providing a sharp and aggressive feel with every keypress. Its sound profile is relatively higher pitched, adding to the overall satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White offers a gentle linear switch that is easy to push, resulting in a subdued typing experience. The sound profile of the Meteor White is described as soft, pitter-patter, contributing to a peaceful and smooth typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths, catering to those seeking intense tactility or a more relaxed typing sensation. However, let's dive deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you decide which one is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Meteor White both feature nylon housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The use of nylon in switch housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. With both switches utilizing the same material for the top housing, users can expect similar outcomes in terms of sound and feel when letting go of a key. The top housing plays a significant role in the switch's sound release, providing a satisfying auditory experience.
However, where the Box Royal and the Meteor White differ is in their bottom housing. While the Box Royal utilizes nylon for its bottom housing as well, the Meteor White also incorporates this material. The bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. With the softer and more sound-absorbing properties of nylon, both switches offer a similar typing experience, with a deeper and fuller sound profile.
In summary, the Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Meteor White share the same nylon housing material for their top housing, resulting in a similar sound and feel when releasing a key. Additionally, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, providing a consistent typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. The utilization of nylon in switch housing enhances the auditory satisfaction by creating a duller and rounder sound. Overall, while they may have slight differences in other aspects, these switches offer comparable sound profiles thanks to their choice of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, one noticeable difference is the actuation force and bottom out force. The Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the actuation force of the Meteor White switch is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 57 grams, classifying it as medium-light.
The actuation force is the amount of force required to trigger a keystroke. Although we do not have the exact actuation force for the Meteor White, it can be assumed that it is lighter than the Box Royal due to its lighter bottom out force. This means that the Meteor White switch would require less force to initiate a keystroke, resulting in a lighter and potentially faster typing experience.
On the other hand, the Box Royal switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This can be appealing to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and may find it more satisfying during extended typing sessions. The heavier forces may also reduce the chances of accidental keystrokes.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may opt for the Meteor White switch, while those seeking a more substantial feel may prefer the Box Royal. Regardless of the specific force measurements, it is important to note that both switches offer a range of actuation forces that are within the medium range, providing a good balance between typing comfort and responsiveness.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Meteor White has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Meteor White switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Box Royal.
In terms of preferences, those who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box Royal. Gamers, in particular, tend to opt for shorter travel distances to enhance their performance in games. On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a more substantial tactile experience may lean towards the Meteor White switch with its longer travel distance. It is important to note that there is a personal preference aspect to this comparison, as some may find shorter travel distances too abrupt while others may find longer travel distances more satisfying.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch for travel distance ultimately depends on the user's specific needs and preferences, with the Box Royal offering a shorter travel distance and the Meteor White providing a longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 Kailh Box Royal switch is known for its aggressive tactility, providing a sharp and binary tactile bump with each keypress. This results in a nearly aggressive tactility that some users may find satisfying. As for sound, the Box Royal produces a relatively higher-pitched sound profile when pressed.
In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor White switch offers a gentle linear feel that is easy to push. It can be described as having a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users. The switch also offers a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel. In terms of sound, the Meteor White switch produces a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile, which can be described as neutral and thocky.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and SP-Star Meteor White switches differ in terms of both sound and feel. The Box Royal provides a sharp and aggressive tactility, accompanied by a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch offers a gentle linear feel, with a mild typing experience and a pitter-patter sound profile. Depending on personal preferences, users can select the switch that aligns with their desired tactility and sound characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are seeking a highly tactile switch with a sharp, binary tactility, the Kailh Box Royal is an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches offer a nearly aggressive tactility that is unmatched. The sound profile is relatively higher pitched, which may be appealing if you prefer sharp and crisp sound when typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and gentle typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is a great option. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, these switches are easy to push and offer a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. They are best described as mild and polished, providing a safe middle-ground typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and feel. Consider whether you prefer a highly tactile switch with a sharp sound profile or a more gentle and polished typing experience. Both the Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Meteor White have their unique features, catering to different typing preferences.
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