Kailh Box Royal vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that delivers a truly tactile typing experience, the Kailh Box Royal might be the perfect choice for you. These switches are known for their sharp and binary tactility, providing a satisfying click with every keystroke. Additionally, the Box Royals have a relatively higher pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Mint offers a smooth and linear typing experience that is loved by many. With a long pole stem, these switches provide a poppy thockiness that is particularly satisfying. The Mint also offers a light and fleeting type feel, perfect for those who prefer a more gentle typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Mint have different materials used for their top housing. The Box Royal utilizes nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to the Mint's polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material of the Mint produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its relatively stiffer plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Mint is especially beneficial for users who plan to utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Box Royal's nylon top housing lacks this aesthetic advantage.
Both the Box Royal and the Mint share the same material for their bottom housing, which is nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deep and full sound profile in both switches. Nylon's relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in a switch's performance. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the Box Royal or the Mint, primarily impacts the sensation and sound when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing the key. Therefore, users can expect variations in sound and feel during both key press and release between the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Mint, primarily due to their distinct top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force for both switches is the same, at 45 grams, ensuring a consistent typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Box Royal takes a heavier approach with 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Mint offers a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a more suitable choice for those who value extended typing sessions and gaming endurance. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, allowing users to select their preferred typing experience based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Royal has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Mint switch. 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional travel distance, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. In this aspect, the Box Royal would be a preferred choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance, such as the Mint switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the Box Royal providing a faster response and the longer travel distance of the Mint switch offering a more substantial feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25, whereas the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91.
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 tactile switch is best known for its sharp and binary tactility, offering a nearly aggressive feel. Each keypress provides a distinct and prominent tactile bump, which can be felt distinctly. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is known for its satisfyingly smooth feel. The long pole stem of these switches contributes to a poppy thockiness sensation when typing, providing a light and fleeting type feel. The Mint switches have a more approachable and gentle touch, falling into a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Box Royal produces a relatively higher-pitched sound, while the Mint has a more neutral and possibly low-pitched sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, while the Box Royal has a sharp and aggressive feel and a higher-pitched sound, the Mint offers a smooth and polished typing experience with a potentially lower-pitched sound. Depending on your preferences, both switches can provide satisfying results.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're someone who enjoys a highly tactile switch with a sharp and crisp feel, the Kailh Box Royal would be the ideal choice for you. These switches provide an aggressive tactility that is unmatched, giving you a satisfying keypress experience. Additionally, if you prefer a higher pitched sound profile, the Box Royal will deliver that sharp and crisp sound you desire. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more gentle typing experience, the KTT Mint linear switch would be a great option. With its long pole stem, you can expect a poppy thockiness, providing a unique and satisfying feel while typing. The Mint also offers a lighter bottom out force, making it easier on your fingers during long typing sessions. Furthermore, if you prefer a lower pitched sound profile or a more neutral tone, the Mint delivers that mellow and bass-heavy sound. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Mint comes down to personal preference and the qualities that matter most to you in a keyboard switch. Whether you prioritize aggression and sharpness or smoothness and gentleness, both switches have their strengths and can provide a fantastic typing experience.
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