Kailh Box Royal vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Royal and the Durock Sea Glass. The Box Royal is well-known for its incredibly tactile feel, offering a sharp, binary tactility that can add an almost aggressive sensation to your typing experience. Additionally, these switches have a higher-pitched sound profile, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced audible feedback. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switches from Durock offer a captivating selection of pastel colors, making them aesthetically pleasing. What sets them apart is their proprietary material blend, which creates a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness while typing. Despite their 62g bottom-out force, the Sea Glass switches feel weightless and incredibly easy to press, thanks to their frictionless nature. Furthermore, they produce a uniquely hollow sound signature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
P3+
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Durock Sea Glass switches offer distinct differences in their sound profiles. The Box Royal's nylon top housing, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. In contrast, the Sea Glass's top housing made from a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend offers a unique sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. Although both switches use nylon in their top housing, the difference in blend and composition results in noticeably different sound characteristics.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Box Royal and Sea Glass switches also contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Box Royal's nylon bottom housing shares the same characteristics as its top housing, with its softer plastic absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Sea Glass utilizes a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its bottom housing, which contributes to creating a sound profile that is described as very pleasant. While the Box Royal's bottom housing focuses on deepening the sound, the Sea Glass's blend adds its unique touch to the switch's overall sound experience.
Although the housing materials differ in the Box Royal and Sea Glass switches, it is important to note that both switches still provide satisfactory results in terms of sound. The nylon used in the top and bottom housing of the Box Royal produces a similar effect, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile both when pressing down and when releasing a key. Similarly, the blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the Sea Glass's top and bottom housing, while offering its own distinct characteristics, still results in a sound profile that is pleasant to the user. Whether one prefers the duller and rounder sound of the Box Royal or the brighter sound of the Sea Glass, both switches provide a satisfactory typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, there are a few notable differences. Firstly, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, ensuring a responsive keystroke with a light touch. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Box Royal takes the lead with a heavier force of 70 grams compared to the Sea Glass which has a slightly lighter force of 62 grams.
The weight of a switch is an important consideration for different individuals. Those who prefer a lighter actuation and bottom out force may find the Sea Glass linear switch more suitable as it allows for longer typing sessions and is ideal for work or prolonged gaming. On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel, the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Box Royal tactile switch would be the preferred option.
While the actuation forces of both switches are the same, the different bottom out forces provide distinct tactile experiences. The Box Royal presents a medium-heavy force, ensuring a solid and satisfying keystroke with a noticeable level of resistance. Meanwhile, the Sea Glass offers a medium force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use.
In summary, the Box Royal tactile switch offers a heavier bottom out force compared to the Sea Glass linear switch, providing a more substantial typing experience. However, both switches share the same actuation force, ensuring a responsive keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sea Glass has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of comparison, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to gravitate towards shorter travel distances as they offer faster response times. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key may find the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Sea Glass more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for either responsiveness or a more pronounced tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 switch is best described as having a high-pitched profile. This means that when the switches are pressed, they produce a sharp and crisp sound. If you prefer a sound that is more rich and bassy, these switches may not be to your liking. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Durock Sea Glass switch is not mentioned in the provided information. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch is known for its sharp and intense tactile feedback. The tactile bump of these switches is strong and crisp, providing a distinct sensation with each keypress. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch is described as having a frictionless and mild feel. This means that the Sea Glass switch offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. The switch's feather-light actuation force also reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Overall, the Sea Glass switch falls within a safe middle-ground zone, providing a gentle and comfortable typing feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and Durock Sea Glass switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Royal provides an aggressive tactility and a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, while the Sea Glass offers a frictionless and mild typing experience with a uniquely hollow sound signature. It's important to choose a switch based on personal preference, taking into consideration factors such as the desired level of tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a sharp and intense tactile feedback, along with a high-pitched sound, the Box Royal would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a mild feel and a unique sound signature, the Sea Glass would be a suitable option. Both switches provide distinct qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you're someone who values a highly tactile typing experience and enjoys a sharp and distinct tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Royal switches would be an ideal choice for you. These switches have a medium-heavy 70g bottom-out force, providing a satisfyingly strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. Additionally, the higher-pitched sound profile adds to the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and frictionless typing experience without compromising on the tactile feedback, the Durock Sea Glass switches would be a great option. These switches have a 62g bottom-out force, offering a weightlessness that defies expectations. The frictionless nature and unique hollow sound signature provide a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness to the typing experience. The Sea Glass switches also fall under the mild, feathery, and easy-to-press descriptors, ensuring a comfortable and effortless typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and Durock Sea Glass switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize aggressive tactility and a higher-pitched sound, go for the Box Royals. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a unique sound signature and a wide range of pastel color options, the Sea Glass switches would be a fantastic fit. Consider your typing style, preferences, and priorities to make an informed decision.
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