Kailh Box Royal vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron Type L. The Box Royal is renowned for its intense tactility, providing a sharp and decisive feedback with a high-pitched sound profile. If you prefer a switch that gives you a definitive tactile response, then the Box Royal is the way to go. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L stands out for its light and easy-to-press feel, requiring only 45g to bottom out. With a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, the Type L offers a more subdued and feather-light typing 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
38g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron Type L switches utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound feedback and overall feel, as the nylon material contributes to the overall acoustics of the switch.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, the specific design and construction of the housing may still result in subtle differences in sound and feel. For example, the shape and size of the housing can impact the resonance and pitch of the sound produced when typing on the switch. Additionally, the thickness and density of the nylon material used can also influence the overall tactile feedback and response of the switch. These subtle variations in housing design may contribute to a slightly different typing experience between the Kailh Box Royal and Gateron Type L switches, despite both utilizing nylon as the primary material.
Overall, the use of nylon as the housing material for both the Kailh Box Royal and Gateron Type L switches highlights a preference for a deeper and fuller sound profile in mechanical keyboard switches. This choice reflects a focus on enhancing the overall typing experience by creating a more satisfying auditory feedback for the user. While there may be minor differences in the specific sound and feel of each switch due to variations in housing design, the shared use of nylon as the primary material ensures that both the Box Royal and Type L switches deliver a similarly pleasant typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Box Royal is heavier in both aspects. The Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is lighter in comparison. This means that the Box Royal will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Type L offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Box Royal may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Type L may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper keypress feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will determine the typing experience based on personal preference for keypress depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25, whereas the Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70.
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 known for its high-pitched and sharp sound profile, providing a crisp and distinct auditory experience with each keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch produces a more neutral and subdued sound, veering towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. If you prefer a more aggressive and high-pitched sound, the Box Royal may be more to your liking, while the Type L offers a quieter and more moderate sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Box Royal switch is characterized by its sharp and intense tactile feedback, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominent in every keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal exertion from your fingers and providing a comfortable typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. If you enjoy a strong tactile bump and intense feedback, the Box Royal may be the better choice, while the Type L offers a lighter and more effortless keypress experience.
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal switch is ideal for those seeking a highly tactile and sharp typing experience, with a high-pitched sound profile to match. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is perfect for those looking for a lighter and more comfortable typing experience, with a neutral sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preference for tactility and actuation force. If you prefer a sharp and aggressive tactile bump with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Box Royal may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more feathery feel, the Type L linear switch might be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile, the Box Royal is the way to go, while the Type L offers a more neutral and subdued sound. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize tactility or actuation force in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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