Kailh Box Royal vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and Gateron Mountain Top offer distinctly different experiences. The Box Royal is renowned for its unparalleled tactility, providing a sharp and binary typing sensation that is perfect for those who seek a more aggressive tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switches are designed with office environments in mind, offering a quiet and light typing experience that is ideal for professional settings. While the Box Royal is characterized by a high-pitched sound profile and aggressive tactility, the Mountain Top switches are bouncy, easy-to-press, and provide a subtle and snappy typing experience. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and Gateron Mountain Top switches both use nylon as the material for both their top and bottom housings. This means that when typing on switches that use either of these housing materials, users can expect a similar experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone. This makes both the Box Royal and Mountain Top switches popular choices for those looking for a tactile typing experience with a satisfying sound.
While both switches share the same housing material, the design and construction of the actual switches may differ. The placement of the nylon top and bottom housings within the switches can impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing may affect the sound when releasing a key. This means that despite sharing the same housing material, the arrangement of these components within the switches may result in subtle differences in typing feel and sound.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and Gateron Mountain Top switches may come down to personal preference and the nuances in typing experience that each switch offers. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to their nylon housing material. Whether one prefers the bottom-out sound and feel influenced by the bottom housing or the sound when releasing a key affected by the top housing may be the deciding factor in choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both the Box Royal and Mountain Top switches offer a high-quality typing experience that is sure to satisfy enthusiasts looking for a tactile switch with excellent sound properties.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams, making the Mountain Top lighter to the touch. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Royal requires 70 grams of force while the Mountain Top only needs 50 grams, showing that the Box Royal is heavier when fully pressed down. The Box Royal provides a medium-heavy typing experience, offering a more substantial push feel, while the Mountain Top provides a lighter touch, perfect for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with the Box Royal offering a stronger push feel and the Mountain Top being lighter for extended use.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm compared to the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.6mm. In this case, the Box Royal has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying feedback for those who prefer a deeper press when typing. On the other hand, the Mountain Top's shorter travel distance may cater more to gamers or individuals looking for a quicker response time. Both switches fall within the spectrum of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular for their efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25, whereas the Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00.
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 offers a high-pitched and sharp tone, which may cater to those who prefer a crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch provides a more neutral sound, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch offers a sharp and intense tactile feedback with a distinct bump in each keypress. This type of feedback may be ideal for those seeking a more pronounced tactile experience. In comparison, the Gateron Mountain Top switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, offering a light actuation force that can enhance typing comfort and reduce fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Mountain Top switch also falls in the safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its typing experience, providing a subtle and gentle resistance that can be suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal switch is best suited for users seeking a highly tactile and sharp typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch caters to those looking for a more neutral sound and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel that enhances typing comfort. Depending on individual preferences and typing environments, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sharp tactility and high pitch sound or bouncy and subtle typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a highly tactile typing experience with a sharp and aggressive feedback, then the Kailh Box Royal switches would be an excellent choice for you. These switches are perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump and a higher pitched sound profile. However, if you work in an office setting or prefer a more subtle and discreet typing experience with a light actuation force, then the Gateron Mountain Top linear switches would be more suitable for your needs. These switches provide a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, making typing effortless and comfortable, while also offering a neutral sound profile that is suitable for professional environments. Ultimately, the decision between the Box Royal and Mountain Top switches will come down to your personal preference for tactility, sound, and typing feel. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and environment.
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