Kailh Box White vs. KTT Orange

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch, and the KTT Orange, a linear switch. The Box White is known for its maximum audio feedback, providing a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and distinct tactile sensation while typing. In contrast, the KTT Orange offers a bouncy typing experience with its 22mm long spring and a smooth, frictionless feel. Its low-pitched sound profile adds to its allure. While these general descriptions are helpful in understanding the key characteristics of each switch, let's delve deeper to determine which one is the best fit for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White Clicky

KTT Orange Linear

$2.76 per 10

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

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Housing materials

Comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the KTT Orange, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This means that they will both have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when compared to switches with other housing materials. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound profile and aesthetics related to RGB lighting, the Box White and the Orange switches will provide similar results.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Box White uses nylon while the Orange uses polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Box White creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Orange contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This difference in bottom housing materials will have an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, with the Box White providing a duller and rounder bottom-out sound compared to the Orange.

In summary, the top housings of the Kailh Box White and the KTT Orange are both made of polycarbonate, resulting in similar sound profiles and suitability for RGB lighting. However, the bottom housings differ, with the Box White's nylon bottom housing providing a deeper and fuller sound profile and the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile. Therefore, the choice between the two switches will depend on the specific sound preferences and desired feel of the user.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Box White clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, while the Orange linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams. Both switches have medium-level actuation forces, providing a satisfying push feel when typing.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box White clicky switch has a larger bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a stronger and more substantial typing experience when fully pressing down the keys. On the other hand, the Orange linear switch has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, which offers a slightly softer touch and may be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter typing experience.

Considering the weight of the switches, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the KTT Orange linear switch as its actuation and bottom out forces are slightly lower than the Box White. This lighter weight can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions, providing comfort and allowing for longer periods of use without fatigue.

However, for users who appreciate a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch may be the preferred option. With its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, it offers a satisfying level of resistance and tactility with each keystroke.

In summary, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the KTT Orange linear switch. This results in a more substantial typing experience for the Box White switch, appealing to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. Meanwhile, the Orange linear switch provides a lighter touch, making it ideal for those who desire a lighter and more comfortable typing experience for longer periods.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, we can see that the Box White has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Orange has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it is still worth noting. If you prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, then the Orange switch would be your choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial feel and depth when pressing down on a key, the Box White switch with its slightly longer travel distance would be a better fit. It is important to consider personal preferences and the intended use of the switch, as some individuals may find shorter travel distances more abrupt while others appreciate the quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is best known for its resonant and high-pitched characteristics. Typing on these switches produces a clean and sharp sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch is characterized by its low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. While the Box White provides an immersive auditory experience, the Orange switch offers a smoother and quieter typing sound.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, providing a sleek and refined typing experience. This can be attributed to either the materials used in its construction or the factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. The long spring in these switches gives them a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, providing a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the excellent factory-lubing of the Orange switch ensures a fluid key travel with minimal resistance or friction.

In conclusion, while the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, perfect for those seeking maximum audio feedback, the KTT Orange linear switch provides a low-pitched sound with a smoother and quieter typing experience. The Box White switch delivers an accented tactility, whereas the Orange switch boasts a bouncy and frictionless feel. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer their own unique qualities, allowing users to choose the one that aligns with their preference for sound and feel. If similar results are desired, opting for the Box White switch would provide a clicky and resonant sound, while selecting the Orange switch would give a low-pitched and smoother typing experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are looking for maximum audio feedback and a tactile typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, you will enjoy a satisfying crunch and accented tactility while typing. The Box White switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. Additionally, its polished finish and reduced friction result in a sleek typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch is the way to go. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches provide a smooth and effortless key travel. The Orange switch features a polycarbonate milky top housing, POM stem, and orange nylon bottom housing, contributing to its bouncy and frictionless feel. The low-pitched sound profile gives a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.

Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you value maximum audio feedback and a tactile feel, the Box White switch is a great choice. However, if you prioritize a bouncy and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Orange switch would be the better fit. Consider your desired sound profile and typing feel to make an informed decision that suits your preferences and needs.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White Clicky

$2.76 per 10

Learn more

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more