Kailh Box White vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box White and the Durock T1. The Box White is renowned for its clicky nature, delivering maximum audio feedback. Typing on these switches evokes a pleasant "stepping on autumn leaves" like crunch, accompanied by a notable tactile response. In contrast, the T1 is a tactile switch known for its exceptional comfort while typing. When pressing down, users can experience a medium bump, reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Box White is categorized as resonant, high-pitched, crunchy, and polished, the T1 boasts a stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, and polished nature. Choosing between these switches depends on personal preference and typing style; however, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the Durock T1 both use polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, resulting in a more satisfying auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those who plan to utilize RGB lighting in their keyboards. In terms of aesthetics, both switches offer similar benefits with their polycarbonate top housings.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Box White and the T1 share the use of nylon as their material of choice. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Both switches offer a similar depth and richness in their sound profile due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing.
Although the top and bottom housings differ between the Kailh Box White and the Durock T1, each housing material brings its own unique qualities to the switch. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the specifics of these qualities may vary between the switches, users can expect similar results in terms of overall sound profile and feel. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying and immersive typing experience, with the housing materials contributing to their distinct characteristics. Whether it's the high-pitched crispness of the polycarbonate top housing or the deeper resonance of the nylon bottom housing, both switches offer their own unique sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it's worth noting that weight plays a significant role in the typing experience. The Kailh Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. On the other hand, the specific actuation force of the Durock T1 is unavailable. However, it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. While the actuation force for the T1 is unknown, it can be inferred that it falls within a range that is comparable to the Box White. In terms of weight, lighter switches like the Box White offer a typing experience that allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it suitable for work or gaming sessions. Alternatively, the T1 with its higher bottom out force provides a more substantial typing feel, catering to those who prefer a more forceful keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of the keystroke.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm. The T1 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box White. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is considered the norm, while 3.0 mm is considered more shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance of the Box White may be a better choice for you. On the other hand, some people find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a deeper feel. In that case, the T1 with its longer travel distance would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White switch provides a "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch, resulting in a resonant and high-pitched sound profile. This switch offers a clean and sharp auditory experience, making it ideal for those who desire maximum audio feedback. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switch produces a low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window. The sound is more mellow and bass-heavy compared to the Box White, providing a more relaxed typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Box White switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the contrary, the T1 switch is characterized as stepped and accented. Stepped switches provide a mild tactile sensation with the presence of pre-travel and/or post-travel, offering a more subtle tactile experience compared to hypertactile switches. Meanwhile, the accented nature of the T1 switch provides a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Like the Box White, the T1 switch is also described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth keystrokes.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch differ in both sound and feel. The Box White offers a resonant, high-pitched sound profile akin to stepping on autumn leaves, while the T1 produces a low-pitched sound resembling rain falling on a window. When it comes to feel, the Box White is polished, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience, while the T1 is stepped and accented, providing a more mild and medium tactile sensation. Overall, if you are looking for maximum audio feedback and a crunchy typing experience, the Box White is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a relaxed, mellow sound and a more subtle tactile experience, the T1 would be a suitable option. It is important to consider personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing experience when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prioritize maximum audio feedback and a satisfying clicky sound, the Box White is the switch for you. It offers a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and provides a crisp and sharp sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, if you value comfort and a mellow sound profile, the T1 is the better option. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound that resembles rain falling on a window. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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