Kailh Box White vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Type L. The Box White is a clicky switch that offers maximum audio feedback, with a distinctive "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility when typing. On the other hand, the Type L is a linear switch that is part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash," featuring a light actuation force of 45g and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the Box White is characterized as resonant, high-pitched, crunchy, and polished, the Type L is described as neutral, subdued, feathery, and easy-to-press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing requirements; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. In contrast, the Gateron Type L utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. When it comes to aesthetics and RGB lighting, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Box White is advantageous, while the nylon top housing of the Type L offers a more classic look.
Both the Box White and the Type L incorporate a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that the typing experience on both switches may have a similar sound profile in terms of depth and fullness. Despite these similarities, the differences in top housing materials between the two switches may still result in distinct sound characteristics, especially when pressing down or letting go of a key.
In terms of sound and feel, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience of a switch. The qualities of the top and bottom housing materials in each switch will impact the sound and feel differently. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Box White and nylon in the top housing of the Type L creates unique typing experiences with varying sound profiles and aesthetics.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Box White requiring 60 grams and the Type L needing 45 grams to bottom out. The lighter actuation force of the Type L may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Box White may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Box White has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Type L's 4 mm. The difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but it can make a noticeable impact on the overall typing experience. The Box White's shorter travel distance may be preferred by individuals seeking a faster response time, such as gamers, while the Type L's longer travel distance may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, with the shorter distance providing quick feedback and the longer distance offering a more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70.
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 and high-pitched auditory experience, with a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. This switch provides a sharp and crisp sound profile that immerses the user in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch is known for a more neutral and subdued sound, which is dampened and less pronounced compared to the Box White switch. The Type L switch caters to those who prefer a quieter and more understated typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal exertion from the user's fingers. The light actuation force of the Type L switch reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable typing experience suitable for extended use.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White switch provides a louder and more tactile typing experience with a crunchy sound profile, while the Type L switch delivers a quieter and smoother typing experience with a feathery feel. Users seeking maximum audio feedback and a more pronounced tactile response may prefer the Box White switch, while those looking for a quieter and effortless typing experience may gravitate towards the Type L switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for sound and feel in their mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value maximum audio feedback and enjoy a crunchy and high-pitched sound profile, the Box White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral and subdued sound, along with a feathery and easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, the Type L is worth considering. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to your personal preference for sound and typing feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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