Kailh Box White vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and the KTT Cream Yellow are two popular options that offer unique typing experiences. The Box White switch is best known for its maximum audio feedback, providing a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and a distinct tactility. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch is designed to deliver a clacky sound with a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem for resonant audio feedback. It also offers a bouncy typing feel due to its lengthened spring. Both switches have their own strengths, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision and find the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the KTT Cream Yellow share the same housing materials, with both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This choice of material allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making them ideal for those who prioritize clear and resonant typing sounds. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for the utilization of RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either of these switches.
While the top housings are the same, the key difference between the Kailh Box White and the KTT Cream Yellow lies in their bottom housings. The Box White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon being a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, ultimately creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow also adopts a nylon bottom housing, which means that it too offers a deep and full sound experience. Like the Box White, the Cream Yellow benefits from the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon, resulting in a similarly dull and round sound.
As the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switches, there will be noticeable differences in sound and feel. When pressing down on either the Kailh Box White or the KTT Cream Yellow, the impact and bottom-out sound will be influenced by the bottom housing. As both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound upon keypress. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key will be affected by the top housing. Since both switches employ polycarbonate for their top housing, a sharper and higher-pitched sound can be anticipated. Thus, although the housing materials are the same, the division of these materials ensures that the switches provide contrasting auditory experiences throughout typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, we can see that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is equal for both switches, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of initial sensitivity. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference. The Box White has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the Cream Yellow, which has a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that when fully pressing down on the key, the Box White requires a slightly stronger push.
In terms of weight considerations, some individuals prefer a lighter switch to type for extended periods, ideal for work or long gaming sessions. For these users, both the Box White and Cream Yellow switches will offer similar results in terms of actuation force. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may choose the Box White due to its slightly higher bottom out force. It is worth mentioning that both switches fall under the medium force category, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch are both shorter than the traditional 4.0mm travel distance, with the Box White measuring at 3.6mm and the Cream Yellow at 3.5mm. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances. In this case, the Box White switch would be the preferred option. However, for those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial key press, a switch with a longer travel distance may be more suitable. Although both switches have relatively similar travel distances, the Cream Yellow switch provides a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Box White.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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
The Kailh Box White clicky switch is best known for its maximum audio feedback, producing a distinctive sound when typing on them. The sound of the Box White can be described as resonant, with a clean and sharp profile. It is high-pitched, which means it has a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. The switch produces a satisfying crunch, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is designed to deliver a clacky sound. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, described as crisp, bright, and percussive.
In terms of feel, the Box White switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. The materials used and potential factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a polished feel. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch offers a bouncy feel. It provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed.
Based on the available information, it is clear that both switches offer unique subjective qualities. The Box White clicky switch emphasizes maximum audio feedback with its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile. It also provides a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow linear switch delivers a clacky sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. It offers a bouncy typing feel with spring-like feedback.
While the switches differ in sound and feel, it is important to note that the overall experience will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. If you are looking for a similar sound and feel as the Box White clicky switch but prefer a linear switch, the Cream Yellow offers a unique blend of clacky sound and bouncy feedback, providing a different but comparable experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are someone who values maximum audio feedback and enjoys a crunchy sound profile while typing, then the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be a perfect choice for you. The Box White switch offers a unique and immersive auditory experience, with a clean and sharp high-pitched sound. Additionally, it provides a polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is the ideal option. The Cream Yellow switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive audio feedback. Moreover, it offers a bouncy sensation, giving you a spring-like rebound when keys are pressed.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch depends on your preferences for sound and feel. Whether you prioritize the crunchy and resonant experience of the Box White or the clacky sound and bouncy feel of the Cream Yellow, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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