Kailh Box Navy vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of the ultimate typing experience and enjoy the satisfying click and tactile feedback of a mechanical keyboard, the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect choice. These clicky switches not only provide a heavy and robust typing feel, but they also produce a distinct sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, if you prefer a more linear typing experience with a focus on smoothness and a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black switches will be right up your alley. Cherry has perfected these iconic switches with their new Hyperglide tooling, resulting in a textured smoothness that is hard to beat. While the Box Navy emphasizes a heavy and clicky typing experience, the MX Black offers a smoother and quieter alternative. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide which switch suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Cherry MX Black switches differ in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profiles. The Box Navy utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the MX Black features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, giving the MX Black a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches offer a distinct typing experience and are popular choices among users.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Box Navy and the MX Black employ nylon, which contributes to a deep and full sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, while the differences between the nylon bottom housings may not be as pronounced as those of the top housings, they still play a role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, providing a tactile response to the typist.
It should be noted that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the sound and feel of the switch will vary depending on whether the key is being pressed or released. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, users can expect different auditory and tactile experiences when using the Kailh Box Navy and the Cherry MX Black, highlighting the importance of housing materials in switch design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Both switches have the same actuation force of 60 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical. This ensures that users will get similar results in terms of responsiveness and speed when typing or gaming. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction between the two switches. The Box Navy has a heavier bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a more substantial and forceful typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Black has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 80 grams. For those seeking a lighter typing experience for longer durations, the MX Black may be a preferable option as it allows for extended periods of comfortable typing. In contrast, the Box Navy's heavier bottom out force appeals to those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with weight being a crucial factor to consider.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the MX Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Navy. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances. The 4.0mm travel distance is the most commonly found and considered traditional, while the Box Navy's 3.6mm is slightly shorter. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Box Navy a potentially more appealing option in that regard. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, in which case the MX Black's slightly longer travel distance may be preferred for a more hearty depth feeling. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, more responsive feel or a more substantial and prolonged key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50, whereas the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00.
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 switch provides a resonant and crunchy experience. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile that immerses you in an auditory experience. The sound is clean and sharp, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump, providing high feedback intensity with each keypress. The feedback is pronounced and creates an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, the switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, resulting in a stiffer typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch is described as textured and stiff. These switches have noticeable friction when pressed, providing a tactile sensation preferred by some users. They also require more force to actuate and bottom-out, making them stiffer compared to other switches.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is ideal for those seeking a heavy typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile. The switch's heftiness and sound signature evoke nostalgia for vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. The switch also offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feel, providing high feedback intensity and an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a classic textured smoothness and a low-pitched sound profile. While both switches provide unique qualities, the Box Navy switch is more suitable for those who prefer a clicky switch with a heavier typing experience, while the MX Black switch is a solid choice for those seeking a smoother linear switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and love the sound signature and tactility of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. With their hefty bottom out force of 90 grams, they offer a sharp and distinct tactile bump that can be felt with every keypress. The sound profile of the Box Navy is resonant and crunchy, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a lower bottom out force of 80 grams, the Cherry MX Black switches are an excellent choice. Known for their classic textured smoothness and deep sound profile, these switches offer a mellow typing experience. Keep in mind that both switches have a stiff feel, requiring more force to actuate and bottom out. Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience, sound, and feel.
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