Kailh Box Navy vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a heavy typing experience and a distinct sound signature, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch may be the perfect fit for you. These switches not only provide a satisfyingly tactile feel but also offer a reminiscent sound reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the KTT Mint linear switch may be more suitable. With its long pole stem, this switch offers a poppy thockiness while maintaining a light and fleeting type feel. These switches are known for their low-pitched sound and polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
15mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Mint use polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Box Navy or the Mint.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon as their material of choice. This classic switch housing material enhances the typing experience by eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. Therefore, whether you choose the Box Navy or the Mint, you can anticipate a similar sound experience due to the presence of nylon in their bottom housings.
However, it is important to note that when the top and bottom housings of a switch differ, their respective qualities impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, directly affecting the sensation when pressing the key down. Meanwhile, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, users will experience slight variations in sound and feel depending on the specific combination of top and bottom housing materials in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it becomes clear that there are notable differences between the two. The Box Navy, being a clicky switch, has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, requiring a stronger push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Mint linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a more effortless keystroke initiation.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box Navy once again showcases its heavier nature with a bottom out force of 90 grams. This results in a more substantial typing experience, providing users who prefer a stronger push feel with satisfaction. On the other hand, the Mint linear switch has a significantly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, which contributes to a smoother and relatively gentler typing experience.
Taking weight into consideration, those who prefer a lighter experience would find the Mint linear switch to be more suitable. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer typing periods without causing fatigue, making it an ideal choice for work purposes or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel, the Box Navy's higher actuation and bottom out forces would be the preferred option.
In summary, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, offering a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience. Meanwhile, the KTT Mint linear switch is lighter, providing a smoother keystroke initiation and a gentler typing experience overall.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mint linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Navy falls on the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distance, making it a popular choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a slightly more substantial depth with its longer travel distance. Some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Box Navy to be too abrupt for their liking, while others might appreciate the increased responsiveness it provides. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference and whether one values a shorter travel distance for faster typing or a longer travel distance for a more satisfying keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50, whereas the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91.
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 Navy clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy sound profile. Typing on these switches will result in a higher-pitched and clean sound, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch provides a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The Mint switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes and preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box Navy offers a sharp and invigorating tactile experience. The switch has a strong and crisp tactile bump, providing a pronounced feedback that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Additionally, the Box Navy switch is described as being stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch provides a more mild and gentle typing experience. With its middle-ground qualities, the Mint switch offers approachable sound and feel for most users. Furthermore, the Mint switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience with a nostalgic sound reminiscent of vintage keyboards, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch would be a great choice. The resonant and crunchy sound, along with its sharp and invigorating feel, will provide an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more mellow typing experience, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a satisfyingly smooth feel and a neutral sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and the choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences. It is recommended to consider factors such as your desired typing experience, sound preferences, and board and keycap choices to ensure the best fit for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and love the satisfying sound and tactile feedback of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. With its bottom out force of 90 grams, these switches offer a heftiness reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. The resonant and crunchy sound profile of the Box Navy switches will provide an immersive auditory experience, similar to stepping on crisp autumn leaves. The sharp and invigorating feel of these switches, with their strong tactile bump, ensures a highly responsive and tactile typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience, the KTT Mint linear switches are an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches offer a medium-light touch that is approachable to most users. The low-pitched and neutral sound profile of the Mint switches provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone, suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether at home or work. The mild and polished feel of these switches ensures a gentle and smooth typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Mint linear switch boils down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy heavy typing with a satisfying click and strong tactile feedback, the Box Navy switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Mint switches will suit your needs. Whichever switch you choose, both are high-quality options that will enhance your mechanical keyboard typing experience.
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