Kailh Box White vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch but not sure which one suits your preferences the best? Allow us to introduce you to the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch, and the TTC Flame Red, a linear switch. Both switches offer unique advantages that may appeal to different types of users. The Box White switch is perfect for those who crave maximum audio feedback as it provides a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch with accented tactility. On the other hand, the Flame Red switch stands out with its dazzling light diffuser, making it the top choice for those who desire a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on the Flame Reds offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the TTC Flame Red switches have contrasting materials for their top and bottom housings. The Box White features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. The Flame Red, on the other hand, has a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches offer distinct sound characteristics based on their top housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box White and Flame Red utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material yields a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon has a greater sound absorption capability compared to harder plastics. Consequently, both switches exhibit a similar sound characteristic when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. However, it's important to note that the bottom housing's impact is more prominent during typing, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key.
Although the top and bottom housings differ for each switch, they contribute unique qualities to the overall sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Flame Red elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, while the switches have their distinguishing features, they share similar characteristics in certain aspects. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box White and the TTC Flame Red will depend on the user's preference for either a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it is clear that both switches fall into the medium range in terms of their forces. The Box White has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Flame Red's 45 grams, indicating that it requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box White is also slightly heavier with 60 grams compared to the Flame Red's 54 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Flame Red may be the preferable option as it has a slightly lower actuation and bottom out force. This lighter weight can be beneficial for typing over long periods or for intense gaming sessions where fatigue can be a concern.
On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel, the Box White may be the better choice. With its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a more satisfying and tactile feedback while typing.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with the Box White being slightly heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Flame Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box White. The most traditional travel distance for a switch is 4.0 mm, making the Flame Red closer to the standard, while the Box White is slightly shallower. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, particularly among gamers who seek faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, opting for the shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm in the Box White would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances too abrupt and prefer a deeper key press. In that case, the Flame Red with its longer travel distance of 4 mm would be a better fit. Whichever switch you choose, both the Kailh Box White and TTC Flame Red offer reliable performance with their respective travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a unique and immersive auditory experience. Typing on these switches produces a clean and sharp sound profile, described as resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means it has a moderate sound and is suitable for a variety of purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user or using the switches at home or work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch offers a polished typing experience. This means it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The feeling when typing on these switches can be described as having a weighty smoothness and accented tactility. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience. Its qualities fall in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it suitable for most users. Similar to the Box White, the Flame Red switch also features a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, it's clear that the Kailh Box White clicky switch is best known for its maximum audio feedback and immersive auditory experience. The sound profile is described as clean, sharp, and crunchy, resembling the satisfying sensation of stepping on autumn leaves. In terms of feel, the Box White offers a polished and sleek typing experience, characterized by reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile and mild, approachable typing experience. It also features a polished finish, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you are looking for maximum audio feedback, tactility, and a unique clicky sound, the Box White would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a more gentle typing experience, the Flame Red would be a suitable option. Regardless of your choice, it's important to consider other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps, as they can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you desire maximum audio feedback and enjoy a higher-pitched and crunchier sound profile when typing, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches provide a clean and sharp sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Additionally, the Box Whites offer a polished and smooth typing experience, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize visuals and have a backlit, RGB keyboard, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is the perfect option. These switches feature a dazzling light diffuser, making them the best choice for showcasing your keyboard's lighting. In terms of feel, the Flame Reds offer a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. With a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, these switches are suitable for various purposes, making them approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and visual aesthetics. Consider whether you prioritize maximum audio feedback and a higher-pitched, crunchy sound profile or if visuals and a weighty smoothness are more important to you. By understanding the unique qualities of each switch, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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