Kailh Box White vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Kailh Box White and the KTT Rose. The Box White is a clicky switch that is perfect for those who crave maximum audio feedback while typing. Its distinct characteristics include a resonant, high-pitched sound, along with a crunchy and polished feel when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Rose switch is known for its beauty and offers more than meets the eye. The use of progressive springs in these switches provides a uniquely substantial typing experience without feeling heavy. Users often hear the soothing sound of bassy raindrops while typing on these switches. While both options offer their own unique features, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make the best decision on which switch suits you the most.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the KTT Rose both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is translucent, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, whether you choose the Box White or the Rose, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box White and the Rose utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. So, regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the sound profile created by the bottom housing.
When it comes to the overall impact of the housing materials, the qualities each material brings to the switch are divided between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing primarily affects the sound when you release a key. Therefore, the choice between the Box White and the Rose may come down to personal preference in terms of the typing experience and sound produced based on these housing material differences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it is clear that they have some differences. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Rose's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium level of actuation force. This means that users will need to apply a similar amount of force to trigger a keystroke on either switch.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box White requires 60 grams of force to fully press down, while the Rose has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that typing on the Rose switch may feel slightly more substantial and require a bit more force compared to the Box White.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it can impact typing endurance and overall typing experience. For those looking for a lighter switch, the Box White would be a suitable choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is preferred for a more substantial typing experience, the Rose switch with its heavier bottom out force may be a better option.
In summary, the actuation force is similar between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, providing similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, the Rose has a slightly heavier bottom out force, offering a more substantial typing experience, while the Box White is lighter and more suitable for extended typing sessions.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Rose linear switch have different travel distances. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Rose has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Rose has a slightly longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Box White has a shorter travel distance, which can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both options have their advantages depending on personal preference. If you enjoy a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance provided by the Box White may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more hearty depth to your key press, the slightly longer travel distance of the Rose may be more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual preferences and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76, whereas the KTT Rose comes in at $3.01.
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 is known for its resonant and high-pitched profile. Typing on these switches produces a clean and sharp sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. This clicky feedback provides an immersive auditory experience, perfect for those who desire maximum audio feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. With a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, typing on these switches produces a soothing sound akin to bassy raindrops. The neutral sound profile makes the Rose switch suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its polished and refined experience. The smooth and sleek finish of these switches results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on the Box White switch offers a tactile experience with an accented tactility, providing a satisfying feel when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. With a gentle and approachable feel, these switches strike a safe middle-ground zone in terms of their characteristics. Similar to the Box White switch, the Rose switch also features a polished finish, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Rose linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Box White switch provides maximum audio feedback with its resonant and high-pitched sound, while also offering a polished and refined typing experience for reduced friction. On the other hand, the Rose switch provides a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile, paired with a mild and approachable typing experience. Both switches offer a polished finish for smooth key travel. While they differ in sound and feel, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the overall experience. If a user prefers a clicky and tactile typing experience with a resonant sound, the Box White switch would be the ideal choice. However, if a user prefers a linear switch with a low-pitched and mellow sound, the Rose switch would be a favorable option. Overall, both switches provide their own unique qualities and can deliver satisfactory results depending on the user's preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize maximum audio feedback and a crisp, "stepping on autumn leaves" typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the way to go. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches offer an accented tactility and a clean, sharp, and crunchy sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, along with a typing experience that is substantial yet not heavy, the KTT Rose linear switch is the better choice. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches provide a lower-pitched sound resembling bassy raindrops when pressed. When it comes to feel, both switches offer a polished finish for smoother key travel, but the Box White is described as having a polished feel while the Rose is described as mild. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize audio feedback and a crisp typing experience (Box White) or a mellow sound and substantial typing experience (Rose).
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