Kailh Box Navy vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a pronounced click and tactile feedback, the Box Navy switches are a perfect choice with their vintage buckling keyboard feel. On the other hand, the Hutt switches provide a satisfying typing experience with a medium-heavy spring and a prominent tactile bump, offering a balanced sound profile. 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
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Bsun Hutt, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile and is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This means that both switches will deliver a clear and resonant sound when typing. However, despite using the same material for the top housing, the design and construction of each switch may result in slightly different sound profiles.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Box Navy uses nylon while the Hutt also uses nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This means that both switches will have a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to the overall sound profile and typing feel.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of each switch. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has more impact on the sound when a key is released. As such, while both the Kailh Box Navy and Bsun Hutt may have similarities in their housing materials, the overall typing experience may vary slightly due to the specific design and construction of each switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch are quite different. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Hutt has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 49 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods of time. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Hutt would be the better option, while those who enjoy a more solid push feel would prefer the Box Navy. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be very noticeable in practical use. However, if you prefer a switch with a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key, the Kailh Box Navy may be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches offer relatively similar travel distances, so you can expect comparable results when using either of them.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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, both the Box Navy and Hutt switches exhibit a resonant profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. The Box Navy is further described as having a crunchy sound characteristic, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, while the Hutt switch does not have this specific descriptor. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound may come down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, both the Box Navy and Hutt switches offer an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. The Box Navy is noted for its sharp tactile bump, offering a high feedback intensity and stiff feel, while the Hutt switch is described as snappy with a reactive and lively keypress. Both switches also share the descriptor of being invigorating, creating an immersive and engaging typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and actuation force.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and Bsun Hutt tactile switch offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences. The Box Navy stands out for its vintage buckling keyboard feel, resonant and crunchy sound profile, and sharp tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Hutt switch offers a distinctive typing experience with a balanced sound profile, prominent tactile bump, and snappy keypress feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a balance of both, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. Consider trying out both switches in person or through sampling before making a decision to ensure your preferences are met.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile and a sharp tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a balanced sound profile and a snappy tactile feel, the Bsun Hutt tactile switches would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force.
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