Kailh Box White vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and TTC Honey switches offer distinct experiences for users. The Box White switch is perfect for those seeking maximum audio feedback, as it provides a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and a pronounced tactility while typing. In contrast, the Honey switch offers a smooth and creamy typing experience, accompanied by a deep and pleasant sound profile. The Honey switch creates a subtle and polished feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a frictionless and buttery typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the TTC Honey, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who value the auditory feedback of their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housings differ between the two switches. The Kailh Box White features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the TTC Honey utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning its sound profile more closely with the top housing. This choice ensures consistency in the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile throughout the entire typing experience.
It's worth noting that the impact of the housing materials will vary depending on the specific action performed on the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more pronounced in the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience by leveraging the unique properties of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that they have different weight profiles. The Kailh Box White has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Honey switch's lighter 42 grams. This means that the Box White switch requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the Box White has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is also slightly heavier than the Honey switch's 50 grams.
Considering the weight factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the TTC Honey linear switch, as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. This lighter weight can be beneficial for extended typing sessions, such as in a workplace or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Kailh Box White clicky switch. With its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience.
Although the weight profiles of these switches differ, it is worth noting that both options offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Honey linear switch 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 Honey linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered a traditional travel distance, with 4.0 mm being the average. However, the Box White offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Honey switch provides a bit more depth in its travel distance, which some individuals may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 switch offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile. Typing on these switches produces a clean and sharp sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This makes them ideal for those who desire maximum audio feedback and enjoy a more immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch provides a more subdued sound. While not completely silent, these switches offer a dampened and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The deep and pleasant sound profile of the Honey switch creates a more relaxed typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Therefore, for those seeking similar results to the Box White's sound, selecting higher-pitched switches would be recommended.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished. This indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel provided by these switches offer a sense of ease and fluidity. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch offers several descriptors for its feel. It is described as creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished. This implies that the Honey switch provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. Similar to the polished feel of the Box White switch, the Honey switch offers reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. The TTC Honey switches give a sensation of gliding across the keys effortlessly, resulting in a seamless and uniform typing feel. However, it is important to note that the specific feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as factory lubing and the materials used in its construction.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and TTC Honey linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White provides a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, while the Honey switch offers a more subdued and pleasant sound. In terms of feel, the Box White offers a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Honey switch provides a creamy, frictionless, and buttery typing sensation, resulting in a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. While the Box White and Honey switches have their unique qualities, it is important to consider personal preferences and factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen to ensure the desired sound and feel are achieved.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values maximum audio feedback and enjoys the sensation of a crunchy tactile switch, then the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be a great choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a satisfying tactile bump and a resonant, high-pitched sound profile that resembles stepping on autumn leaves. Additionally, the Box White switch offers a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more subdued typing experience, the TTC Honey linear switch would be worth considering. With a light bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches provide a creamy and buttery typing sensation reminiscent of gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The Honey switch offers a deep and pleasant sound profile, but in a more dampened and subtle manner, making it suitable for shared spaces. Furthermore, it boasts a frictionless and polished feel, ensuring minimal resistance and fluid key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the TTC Honey linear switch depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a loud and tactile typing experience with maximum audio feedback, the Box White switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a smoother and more subdued typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile, the Honey switch is the optimal choice. Consider your own preferences and requirements to make an informed decision.
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