Kailh Box White vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are several options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular switches that cater to different preferences are the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch, and the KTT Laurel, a linear switch. The Box White switch is perfect for those who crave maximum audio feedback, as it produces a distinctive "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and offers a pronounced tactile feel. On the other hand, the Laurel switch, with its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. It provides a subtly low-pitched sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, let's delve deeper into the intricacies of these switches to help you determine the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the KTT Laurel switches differ in terms of their sound profiles. The Box White's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the Laurel's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This means that the Box White switch would be better suited for those who prefer a more vibrant and lively typing experience, while the Laurel switch would appeal to individuals who prefer a quieter and more subdued sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the top housing of both switches offers some similarities. Both the polycarbonate and POM materials are clear, allowing for the passage of RGB lighting, which adds a visually appealing element to the switches. So, if you're looking for a switch with an emphasis on RGB lighting, both the Box White and the Laurel would be suitable options.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the materials used are different. The Box White features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Laurel uses a POM bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper sound profile but with a relatively more muted tone. These differences in bottom housing materials can contribute to variations in the overall typing experience and how the key feels when pressed down.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White and the KTT Laurel switches differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Box White's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the Laurel's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted tone. The nylon bottom housing of the Box White creates a fuller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the Laurel offers a similar depth but with a relatively more subdued tone. However, both switches share the benefit of allowing RGB lighting to shine through their clear top housings. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding sound profile and the overall typing experience desired.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, it is evident that they have different force requirements. The Box White switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Laurel's lighter actuation force of 43 grams. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Box White switch requires a force of 60 grams, while the Laurel requires a lighter force of 50 grams.
Considering weight in terms of typing experience, some individuals prefer a lighter switch to enable longer typing sessions, which is especially beneficial for work or extended gaming. In this aspect, the Laurel switch with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces would be a suitable option. On the other hand, some users prefer a more substantial push feel for a satisfying typing experience. For them, the Box White switch with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces would be the preferable choice.
Although the forces required for actuation and bottom out are different between the two switches, they both fall within the medium to light range. Therefore, users can still achieve similar results in terms of typing experience, but they will have different tactile responses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter touch or a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Laurel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become more popular in recent times, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Laurel switch would be a suitable choice due to its shorter travel distance. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, in which case the Box White switch with its longer travel distance would be preferable for a deeper and more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy experience. Typing on these switches produces a clean, sharp sound, resembling the sensation of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile. This results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound profile of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch provides a polished experience. This indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, leading to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel switch offers a snappy feel. These switches are highly responsive, often due to longer or dual-staged springs, providing a more lively typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a unique and immersive auditory experience with its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile. Its polished feel enhances typing comfort with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch provides a subtly low-pitched sound profile, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Its snappy feel adds to the responsiveness and liveliness of the typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences and factors like noise tolerance when choosing between these switches. However, if you prefer a similar sound profile, the Laurel switch can provide a satisfying experience, albeit with a different sound pitch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who values maximum audio feedback and enjoys the sensation of typing on clicky switches, then the Kailh Box White switch is the one for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, you can expect a satisfying crunch similar to stepping on autumn leaves with each keystroke. The Box White switch offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, its polished feel ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more mellow sound profile, then the KTT Laurel linear switch would be the better choice. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Laurel switch strikes a perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. It offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to the higher-pitched switches. Furthermore, the Laurel switch is known for its snappy feel, thanks to its super responsive nature, making the typing experience feel more alive.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch depends on your personal preference for sound and feel. Consider whether you prefer the immersive audio feedback and accented tactility of a clicky switch or the mellow sound profile and snappy feel of a linear switch. By understanding your preferences and needs, you can choose the switch that enhances your typing experience and perfectly complements your mechanical keyboard setup.
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