Kailh Box Navy vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a heavy typing experience and a nostalgic sound signature, then the Kailh Box Navy switches may be the perfect fit for you. These clicky switches are reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s, with a satisfyingly crunchy feel and an invigorating sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and more mellow typing experience, along with a deep and rich sound profile, then the KTT Wine Red switches are worth considering. These linear switches provide a pillowy light feel when typing, with a low-pitched and bassy sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Wine Red share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is especially advantageous for those wanting to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for stunning lighting effects. Additionally, the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate lends itself to a more clear and resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience.
However, the bottom housings of the Box Navy and the Wine Red differ. The Box Navy utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Wine Red incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, complementing the properties of the top housing. This combination ensures a consistent and balanced sound profile throughout the typing experience.
When using the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing are more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing in the Box Navy provides a distinctive and satisfying typing experience, offering a deeper and fuller sound with each keypress. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Wine Red contributes to the overall clarity and resonance, enhancing the precision and tactility of the typing experience. Additionally, the impact of the top housing becomes more apparent when releasing a key, providing a satisfying sound and smooth return.
In conclusion, although the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Wine Red both utilize polycarbonate top housings, their bottom housings differ in material. The Box Navy's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the clarity and resonance of the overall typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches promise a premium typing experience, showcasing the importance of balanced and well-designed housing materials in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it becomes evident that they differ significantly in terms of weight. The Box Navy switch is notably heavier, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing users with a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch offers a lighter touch, with an actuation force of 44 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. Although these switches have varying force requirements, it is important to note that both switches can yield similar results in terms of typing performance, as they are engineered to deliver consistent keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on an individual's preference for a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wine Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Wine Red is considered more traditional, providing a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on keys. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Box Navy is shorter, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. Shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular in the gaming community due to their ability to provide quick and efficient keystrokes. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for either a more responsive and quicker experience or a deeper and more satisfying keystroke feel.
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 Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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 experience. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile with clean and sharp characteristics. The sound is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch offers a deep and rich sound profile characterized by a lower frequency range. The sound is bassy and low-pitched, providing a sense of depth and richness associated with bass tones. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. While the sound profiles differ between the two switches, both can provide an enjoyable auditory experience, depending on your personal preference.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff typing experience. These switches have a strong tactile bump that provides high feedback intensity, allowing you to feel each keypress distinctly. They also offer a snappy, reactive feel with a moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the information provided does not describe the feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch. However, linear switches are generally known for their smooth keystrokes without any tactile feedback or audible click. This means that the Wine Red switches will likely provide a smoother and quieter typing experience compared to the tactile and clicky Box Navy switches.
Taking all the available information into account, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Box Navy switches are best suited for those seeking a heavy and tactile typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile. Their feedback intensity and crisp tactile bump provide a strong and satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches offer a pillowy light typing feel with a deep and rich sound profile. They are ideal for those who prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience without pronounced tactile feedback. Consider your personal preferences for both sound and feel when choosing between these two switches to ensure a keyboard that matches your desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and love the sound and tactility of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. Their heftiness and sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s will provide you with a satisfyingly crunchy and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing feel and a deep, rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red linear switches are the way to go. These switches offer a pillowy light feel, accompanied by a bassy and low-pitched sound that resembles the richness of bass tones. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your preference for typing feel and sound, with the Box Navy providing a more tactile and heavy experience, while the Wine Red offers a lighter and more mellow typing sensation.
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