Kailh Box Royal vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal, known for its sharp, binary tactility and higher-pitched sound profile, to the Bsun Olive switches, with their all-POM housings and resonant, deep sound, it's clear that both offer unique tactile experiences. The Box Royals are perfect for those seeking an aggressive tactility, while the BSUN Olive switches provide a pronounced tactile feedback with a satisfying feel and distinct auditory 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
45g
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
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and Bsun Olive both use different housing materials for their switches, with the Box Royal featuring nylon top and bottom housings while the Olive has POM top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, POM housings are said to produce an incredibly pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and more muted in comparison.
While both switches use different housing materials for their top and bottom parts, the impact of each material on the overall typing experience is split between the two. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings can create a unique typing experience for each switch, with the material properties of nylon and POM showcasing their individual characteristics.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Kailh Box Royal and Bsun Olive switches, they both aim to provide an enhanced typing experience with their unique sound profiles. While the Box Royal's nylon housing creates a deeper sound with a fuller profile, the Olive's POM housing offers a more muted and pleasing sound quality. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as each housing material brings its own distinct characteristics to the typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch are quite similar, with the Box Royal having a slightly heavier bottom out force. The Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Olive has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. When it comes to weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Olive for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Box Royal for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, the Box Royal has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Olive. Gamers who prefer a bit more depth when pressing down on a key may find the Box Royal to be a better option, while those who want a slightly quicker key press may lean towards the Olive. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, providing a responsive typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and Bsun Olive tactile switches offer contrasting experiences in both sound and feel. The Box Royal provides a high-pitched sound with a sharp, binary tactility that may appeal to those seeking an aggressive tactile feel. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switches offer a deeper, resonant sound with an invigorating, accented tactile feedback that falls into the medium range. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a sharper, high-pitched sound and intense tactile bump, the Box Royal may be more suitable. However, if you enjoy a deeper sound profile and a tactile feedback that is invigorating and snappy, the Bsun Olive could be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so either choice is sure to result in a satisfying outcome.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, consider your preferences for tactility and sound. If you enjoy an aggressive and high-pitched tactility with a relatively higher pitched sound profile, the Box Royal may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with pronounced and satisfying tactile feedback, along with a deep and resonant sound, the Bsun Olive switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you are looking for.
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