Kailh Box Royal vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and the TTC Neptune stand out as distinctive options with unique characteristics. The Box Royal is renowned for its intense tactility, offering a sharp and binary feedback that appeals to those seeking a truly tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune sets itself apart with an innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and frictionless typing feel, reminiscent of chewy delicacies like mochi. While the Box Royal leans towards a higher-pitched sound profile, the Neptune boasts a muted and refined auditory ambiance. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal - the Box Royal for its aggressive tactility and recognizable sound, and the Neptune for its buttery smoothness and unique typing sensation. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and the TTC Neptune both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Box Royal utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that is pleasing to many users. On the other hand, the Neptune employs POM for its top housing and polycarbonate for its bottom housing. The POM top housing creates a unique and deeper sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sharper and crisper sound.
In terms of sound characteristics, the nylon top housing of the Box Royal and the POM top housing of the Neptune both contribute to a deeper sound profile. However, the nylon top housing of the Box Royal creates a fuller sound, while the POM top housing of the Neptune results in a more muted sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Box Royal, which creates a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing play a significant role. The softer nature of nylon in the Box Royal's bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the stiffer polycarbonate in the Neptune's bottom housing leads to a more clear and resonant bottom-out experience. On the other hand, the impact of the top housing material is more noticeable when releasing a key. Overall, the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the TTC Neptune each bring their own distinct characteristics to the switches, resulting in varied sound profiles and tactile experiences for users to enjoy.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Box Royal has a higher actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams. Similarly, the Box Royal's bottom out force of 70 grams is heavier than the Neptune's 50 grams. This means that the Box Royal provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Neptune offers a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have their benefits, with the Box Royal catering to those who prefer a heavier feel and the Neptune catering to those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Box Royal the shorter option in terms of travel distance compared to the Neptune. The difference of 0.2 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable difference in the feel and feedback of the switch. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box Royal for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Neptune. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience, and selecting between the two would depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 and TTC Neptune switches offer contrasting experiences. The Box Royal produces a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp, providing a distinct auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Neptune switch offers a low-pitched, muted sound profile that is more refined and unobtrusive, creating a quieter typing environment. Depending on your preference for sound, you can choose between the more pronounced and higher-pitched sound of the Box Royal or the softer and muted sound of the Neptune.
In terms of feel, the Box Royal is known for its sharp tactile feedback, delivering a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch offers a buttery, almost frictionless typing experience that is smooth and effortless. The Neptune switch's unique combination of a springy resistance with a smooth glide creates a textured pleasure with every keystroke, while the Box Royal's sharp tactility provides a more aggressive and pronounced feedback.
Overall, choosing between the Kailh Box Royal and TTC Neptune switches will largely depend on your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a sharp, aggressive tactile feedback and a higher-pitched sound, the Box Royal may be the preferred choice. However, if you prefer a smoother, almost frictionless typing experience with a muted, low-pitched sound, the TTC Neptune switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switches and the TTC Neptune linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp, aggressive tactility that produces a higher-pitched sound, the Box Royal switches are the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light bottom out force, a smooth, frictionless glide, and a unique "matte" feel that offers a more muted sound profile, then the TTC Neptune switches would be the ideal option for your typing needs. Consider what type of typing experience you enjoy most and choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and requirements.
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