Kailh Box White vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to clicky mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Kailh Box White and the KTT Purple Click. Both switches offer a satisfying click sound when typing, but there are some key differences between them. The Box White switch is best known for its maximum audio feedback and is often likened to the sound of stepping on autumn leaves. With a high-pitched and crunchy feel, it guarantees a resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch, also known as Purple Sauce, brings a fairly high-pitched and satisfying click. It offers light keystrokes with a pronounced tactility that strikes a perfect equilibrium. While both switches fall into the crunchy and resonant categories, the Box White switch emphasizes its audio feedback, while the Purple Click switch focuses on a balanced feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 Purple Click both have polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a similar sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, making it ideal for those seeking a more pronounced typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a great option for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light dispersion.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches feature a nylon material. While they may have different brand names, the use of nylon brings similar qualities to the typing experience. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This choice of material creates a duller and rounder sound, which can be preferred by individuals looking for a quieter typing experience.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall switch, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles. While the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, the top housing is more prominent in determining the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even though the Kailh Box White and the KTT Purple Click have the same materials for their top and bottom housings, the specific housing design of each switch may result in variations in sound and feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White and the KTT Purple Click share similar characteristics in terms of their housing materials. With both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing, users can expect a sharper, crisper sound profile. Likewise, the nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. However, it is important to consider the specific housing design of each switch, as this may introduce slight differences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. In terms of weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for comfortable typing over longer periods of time. This is especially beneficial for those who use their keyboards extensively at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are people who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For those individuals, opting for switches with heavier forces is more ideal.
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both of which fall under the medium range. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, qualifying it as medium-light.
Regarding actuation force, the Box White switch requires the user to apply a slightly stronger pressure of 50 grams to trigger a keystroke, compared to the 40 grams required by the Purple Click switch. This difference may be noticeable for individuals who are more sensitive to variations in force.
In terms of bottom out force, the Box White switch again requires a slightly heavier force of 60 grams compared to the Purple Click switch's 55 grams. This disparity may be felt when pressing the keys down to their full extent.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the heavier option, requiring a bit more force for both actuation and bottoming out, whereas the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the lighter option, with lower force requirements. However, both switches fall within the medium range for actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer switches in this category. Thus, if a similar typing experience is desired, either switch can provide comparable results.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the travel distance of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Purple Click being slightly longer. However, with the increasing popularity of shorter travel distances for faster response times, the Box White may be preferred by gamers. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes and increased responsiveness. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when typing may lean towards the Purple Click with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for response time versus depth of keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click 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
When it comes to sound, both the Kailh Box White and the KTT Purple Click switches offer a satisfying and crunchy click sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. However, the Box White switch has a slightly higher-pitched sound profile, which provides a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch also delivers a resonant sound with a higher pitch, offering an immersive auditory experience. Overall, both switches provide a pleasing and clicky sound, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This switch features reduced friction and smooth key travel, thanks to the materials used or factory lubing. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. It has a moderate to firm actuation force, allowing for a satisfying tactile experience. Additionally, the Purple Click switch is categorized as a stepped switch, meaning it has a mild bump with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, unlike hypertactile switches that have a more pronounced bump.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that both the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both provide a crunchy clicky sound that resembles stepping on autumn leaves, although the Box White switch has a slightly higher pitch. In terms of feel, the Box White switch offers a polished and smooth typing experience, while the Purple Click switch provides an invigorating and tactile feel with a mild bump. Overall, both switches are excellent choices for those seeking a clicky mechanical keyboard switch, providing an enjoyable and immersive typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize maximum audio feedback and a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium level of tactile feedback that feels like stepping on autumn leaves and provides a satisfying crunch. Additionally, the Box White switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a fairly high-pitched, satisfying click, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the better option. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, it offers a medium-light level of feedback and a pronounced tactility without being overwhelming. The Purple Click switch is also crunchy and resonant, providing an immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for sound and feel, so consider these factors when making your decision. In the end, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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