Kailh Box Royal vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear are two popular options with distinct features. The Box Royal is well-known for its intense tactility, offering a sharp and binary feel that is perfect for those seeking an aggressive typing experience. Additionally, it has a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its innovative design. It maintains a clacky bottom-out sound while producing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. Furthermore, its type feel is silky smooth, striking a balance between being polished and retaining a slight snappiness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches have distinct differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Box Royal features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate material allows for a translucent housing, making it suitable for switches with RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Box Royal and Semi-Silent Linear switches employ nylon. The use of nylon in switch housings leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, both switches offer a similar dull and round sound when bottoming out keys.
Considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall switch experience, if the top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of each material will be divided. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing will have a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will play a larger role in the sound when keys are released. Therefore, while the Kailh Box Royal and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches may have differences in the materials used for their housings, they both provide satisfactory results in terms of sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is relatively light, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming. In contrast, the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box Royal requires a heavier 70 grams of force to fully press the key, providing a more substantial typing experience with a satisfying resistance. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Box Royal but still falls within the medium range.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Box Royal as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. This lighter weight can also be beneficial for individuals using the keyboard for work or prolonged gaming sessions. However, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more pronounced typing experience, the heavier bottom out force of the Box Royal may be more suitable.
In comparison, since the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear switch is not available, it is challenging to determine its suitability for individuals who specifically prefer a certain actuation force. However, its medium bottom out force suggests that it may offer a balance between light and heavy typing experiences.
Overall, while the Box Royal leans towards a medium-heavy actuation force and a heavier bottom out force, the specifics of the Semi-Silent Linear switch make it difficult to directly compare the two. However, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may find the Box Royal more suitable, while those searching for a medium-weight switch can consider the Semi-Silent Linear.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, which typically range from 4.0 mm (most traditional) to 3.0 mm (most shallow). However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity recently, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. For those seeking a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal may be preferred. On the other hand, some users find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 terms of sound, the Kailh Box Royal is best described as having a high-pitched profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making them stand out among other switches. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a subdued sound profile. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. This makes it a good choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Royal provides a sharp tactile experience. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominent and can be felt distinctly with each keypress. This intense feedback is favored by those who enjoy a highly tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offers a more mild and approachable feel. It falls into the category of mild switches, providing a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Semi-Silent Linear is described as snappy and buttery, indicating a responsive typing experience with smooth and fluid keystrokes. This switch strikes a balance between comfort and performance.
In summary, the Kailh Box Royal and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Royal stands out with its aggressive tactility and high-pitched sound profile, while the Semi-Silent Linear provides a smooth and quiet typing experience with a mild and approachable feel. Both switches have their merits depending on personal preferences. If you are drawn to a highly tactile switch with sharp feedback and a higher-pitched sound, the Box Royal is a great choice. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a more subdued sound and a comfortable typing experience that appeals to a broader range of users. Keep in mind that individual keyboard setups and keycaps can also affect the overall sound and feel, so experimentation may be necessary to achieve the desired result.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with aggressive tactility and a higher pitched sound, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is the perfect choice for you. These switches have a sharp and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Additionally, they have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound and a smoother typing experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, they offer a more moderate actuation force requirement. Whether you are a beginner or advanced user, the Semi-Silent Linear switches provide a safe middle-ground typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your preference for tactility and sound.
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