Kailh Box Royal vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box Royal and Gateron Weightlessness present two compelling options that cater to different preferences. The Box Royal is celebrated for its aggressive tactile feedback, providing a sharp and pronounced actuation that many typists and gamers appreciate for its precision and responsiveness. Its higher-pitched sound profile adds to the overall experience, making each keystroke feel satisfying and attention-grabbing. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness strikes a balance with its subtle to moderate tactile feel, offering a more laid-back typing experience while still delivering enough feedback to ensure accurate key presses. Its more balanced sound profile complements its gentler tactility, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter and less intrusive typing sound. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
In examining the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron Weightlessness, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is heralded as a classic switch housing material due to its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent qualities of nylon as a relatively softer plastic allow for greater sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. Because both the Box Royal and Weightlessness employ nylon throughout their structures, users can expect a similar acoustic output that enhances the overall typing experience.
While both switches utilize nylon in their construction, their performance characteristics may still exhibit slight nuances based on the design and engineering of each switch. Even with the same materials, the switch's feel and overall typing experience can differ due to variations in stem design, spring weight, and actuation point. However, the shared use of nylon guarantees that both switches will deliver a comparable sound profile; the characteristics of the nylon will help to maintain a consistent auditory softness whether releasing a key or bottoming out. This suggests that if users prioritize sound quality in their typing, either the Kailh Box Royal or the Gateron Weightlessness will meet those needs.
Ultimately, the impact of the nylon material in the housing can be felt differently depending on the aspects of each switch. The bottom housing significantly influences the sound and feel at the point of bottoming out, while the top housing is more pivotal in shaping the sound as keys are released. Despite both utilizing the same nylon material, it’s important for users to consider the overall design specifics that may modify the final experience. Regardless, enthusiasts can rest assured that the fundamental acoustic properties provided by nylon ensure both switches will offer an engaging auditory feedback during use.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Royal features an actuation force of 45 grams, which is lighter than the Weightlessness's actuation force of 50 grams, making the former a better choice for those who prefer less resistance during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Box Royal has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which provides a more pronounced tactile experience as users feel a definite resistance when bottoming out. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness does not have a specified bottom out force. This variability may lead to a more uncertain response upon full key depression, and since its bottom out force is unknown, it could be softer or heavier than the Box Royal. Overall, the Kailh Box Royal is the lighter option with a clear bottom out measurement, while the Gateron Weightlessness offers a heavier actuation feel but lacks comprehensive bottom-out data.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, a noticeable difference emerges; the Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Weightlessness features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Kailh Box Royal the longer option, providing a more pronounced depth that some users may appreciate for a hearty typing experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Gateron Weightlessness may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preferences: those who enjoy a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the Box Royal, while those favoring snappier feedback may prefer the Weightlessness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 tactile switch stands out with its high-pitched profile. This switch produces a sharp and crisp sound that is quite distinctive when pressed. If you prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback that lacks the richer, bass-heavy tones of some other switches, the Box Royal would fit that bill perfectly. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch offers a balanced sound profile, although specific characteristics are less detailed. It’s reasonable to expect that the Weightlessness will produce a more subdued auditory experience, focusing on a moderate and likely softer sound when compared to the aggressive sharpness of the Box Royal.
In terms of feel, the Box Royal is renowned for its remarkable sharpness, providing a high feedback intensity with each keypress. The distinctly felt tactile bump is strong and crisp, leading to a highly engaging typing experience, especially for those who enjoy significant tactile sensations. Conversely, the Weightlessness switches provide a more subtle to moderate tactile experience. This suggests a gentler feedback, catering to users who may prefer less pronounced tactile cues while still enjoying some level of tactile feedback on their presses.
In summary, while the Kailh Box Royal excels in delivering an aggressive, sharp tactile and auditory experience, the Gateron Weightlessness provides a more muted yet balanced alternative in sound and a softer tactile feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for tactile intensity and auditory feedback, with both options offering their unique takes on the tactile switch experience. If you aim for pronounced tactility and sound, the Box Royal is your best bet; however, for a more subtle approach, the Weightlessness should meet your needs effectively.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you crave a pronounced tactile feedback with significant resistance, the Box Royal is your ideal choice. With its sharp and aggressive tactility, this switch provides a satisfying experience for those who enjoy a strong feedback loop, making it perfect for fast typing or gaming where precision is key. Additionally, its higher-pitched sound profile adds an exhilarating auditory element for users who prefer a crisper sound over deeper bass notes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile response, the Gateron Weightlessness switches are better suited for you. Their moderate tactile feel provides a balanced experience without overwhelming your fingers, ideal for prolonged typing sessions where comfort is paramount. The Weightlessness's sound profile is designed to be more subdued, ensuring a more pleasant ambiance while you work or play. Ultimately, your decision hinges on whether you want that aggressive tactile punch or a more gentle and comfortable typing experience.
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