Kailh Box Royal vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can make all the difference in your typing experience. Two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Royal, a tactile switch, and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, a linear switch. The Box Royal switches are renowned for their intense tactility, making them ideal for those seeking a nearly aggressive typing experience. Additionally, the higher-pitched sound profile adds a satisfying auditory element. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switches offer a different appeal, boasting a buttery smooth typing experience due to their progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. The lower-pitched sound profile, combined with a neutral and mild sensation, makes the Sea Salt Lemon switches an attractive choice. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you determine the best option for your needs.
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches differ in terms of their housing materials. The Box Royal features a nylon top housing, while the Sea Salt Lemon switches have a polycarbonate top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in housing material impacts the overall sound profile and can cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a more rounded and duller sound, the Box Royal's nylon top housing might be the better choice. If you prefer a clear and resonant sound, the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing would be more suitable.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box Royal and Sea Salt Lemon switches utilize nylon. This material also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, there is a similarity in the sound produced by the two switches at the bottom-out stage. The nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent and satisfying sound experience when pressing down on the switches. This reinforces the keyboards' overall sound profile and can create a pleasant typing experience for users who appreciate a deeper sound with less resonance.
It is worth noting that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on the stage of the keypress. When you press down on the switch, you will primarily feel and hear the qualities of the bottom housing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, when you release a key, the sound is more influenced by the top housing. The top housing's characteristics play a significant role in the sound produced when you let go of a key. Therefore, the choice between the Box Royal's nylon top housing and the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing will have a noticeable impact on the sound profile when releasing a key, potentially attracting different preferences based on the desired sound aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, one can observe some similarities and differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity ensures that users can expect similar sensitivity and responsiveness from both switches. However, the bottom out force of these switches differs. The Kailh Box Royal has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter switch to avoid fatigue during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon can provide a lighter typing experience compared to the Kailh Box Royal. It is worth considering these weight differences based on personal preferences and the intended use of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Sea Salt Lemon is slightly longer than the Box Royal. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Box Royal may be more appealing. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the longer travel distance of the Sea Salt Lemon may be preferable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and individual typing or gaming needs.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80.
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 KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches offer distinct profiles. The Box Royal has a high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. This is ideal for those who prefer a more vibrant and bright sound profile. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon has a low-pitched sound, featuring a deeper and more mellow tone. This is particularly suitable for individuals who enjoy a richer and bassier sound. Additionally, the Sea Salt Lemon is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for different usage scenarios. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, so customization can play a role in achieving desired sound qualities.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Royal and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches provide contrasting experiences. The Box Royal is renowned for its sharp tactile feedback, offering a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump. Every keypress with these switches is distinct and noticeable. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon is described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that the switches offer a more gentle feel compared to those with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the Sea Salt Lemon switches are approachable to most, as they fall in a safe middle-ground zone. This makes them suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal switches are well-known for their aggressive and binary tactility, providing an almost aggressive tactile experience. They have a relatively higher pitched sound and a sharp tactile feel. The KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches, on the other hand, offer a buttery smooth typing experience with their progressive spring and dry-lube design. They have a low-pitched sound and a mild tactile feel that is approachable to most users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, individuals seeking a strong tactility and sharp sound may lean towards the Box Royal, while those looking for a smoother and more mellow typing experience may prefer the Sea Salt Lemon. It's important to consider individual preferences and requirements when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're someone who prioritizes a highly tactile typing experience and enjoys the sharp and crisp feedback of each keypress, then the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches offer a nearly aggressive tactility that is unmatched. Additionally, if you prefer a higher pitched sound profile, Box Royals will deliver in that aspect as well.
On the other hand, if you appreciate a buttery smooth typing experience and a more gentle and approachable feel, then the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch would be more suitable for you. With a lower bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches provide a medium-light sensation that can be enjoyed by most users. Furthermore, Sea Salt Lemons have a neutral sound profile, which means they strike a balance between the rich and bassy profiles and the higher-pitched ones.
Ultimately, the choice between Kailh Box Royal and KTT Sea Salt Lemon depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize intense tactility and a distinct typing experience, go for the Box Royals. However, if you value smoothness, a gentler feel, and a more versatile option, the Sea Salt Lemons are the way to go. Consider these factors carefully and pick the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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