Bsun Avocado vs. Kailh Box Navy
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Kailh Box Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Avocado and the Kailh Box Navy stand out as popular choices, each offering unique characteristics worth considering. The BSUN Avocado switch delivers a tactile typing experience that is both snappy and satisfying, with a pronounced bump and buttery downstroke. The minimal acoustics provide a subtle background to the tactile sensations, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy switch is designed for those who enjoy a heavy typing feel and the distinct clicky sound of a vintage keyboard. With its sharp, resonant click and satisfying crunch, this switch caters to a different preference for those seeking a more robust typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
90g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Kailh Box Navy, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Avocado and the Box Navy use nylon for this component. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. This difference in housing materials between the top and bottom adds complexity to the overall sound and feel of the switches when in use.
While the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Kailh Box Navy differ in terms of their top and bottom components, the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon are present in both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a distinct sound profile, while nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a fuller and deeper typing experience. By combining these materials in different parts of the switch, both the Avocado and the Box Navy offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, it is clear that the Avocado is the lighter of the two. With an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Avocado offers a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Box Navy is heavier, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a substantial and clicky typing feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Avocado would be the preferred choice. In contrast, those who enjoy a more robust and clicky typing experience may opt for the heavier Box Navy switch. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, and selecting between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the keyboard market. Gamers often favor switches with shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Avocado a suitable choice for gaming. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Box Navy more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
The Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch offers a mild and neutral sound signature, creating a subtle auditory backdrop for your typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch delivers a resonant and crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. Depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment, the Avocado switch may provide a quieter typing experience compared to the more immersive and audibly satisfying click of the Box Navy switch.
In terms of feel, both the Bsun Avocado and Kailh Box Navy switches offer invigorating feedback with pronounced tactile sensations. The Avocado switch is characterized by an accented and snappy tactile bump, providing a buttery downstroke and a moderate amount of feedback. Similarly, the Box Navy switch features a sharp and invigorating tactile response, with a firm actuation force and a crisp bump that enhances the typing sensation. However, the Box Navy switch is known for its stiffness, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to the Avocado switch.
In conclusion, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with pronounced yet milder tactile feedback, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more immersive and audibly satisfying typing experience with a sharper tactile response and a distinct click sound, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them depends on individual typing preferences and desired sensations.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferred typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile switch with a pronounced bump and satisfying feedback, along with a mild and unobtrusive sound signature, then the Avocado is the way to go. On the other hand, if you crave a heavy typing experience with a vintage-inspired clicky switch that delivers a crisp and sharp sound profile, as well as a strong and prominent tactile bump, then the Box Navy is the ideal choice for you. Consider your preference for bottom out force, tactility, sound, and overall typing feel when making your decision between these two distinct switches.
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