Kailh Box Navy vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and Bsun Olive are popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Box Navy is ideal for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience and appreciate the clicky sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive is perfect for users who prefer a tactile switch with a unique design that delivers a satisfying auditory and tactile experience. While both switches offer their own set of benefits, such as the sharp and invigorating feel of the Box Navy, and the accented and snappy feedback of the Bsun Olive, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Bsun Olive, we see that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Box Navy features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, while the Olive uses a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. Interestingly, both switches have a POM bottom housing, which contributes to the overall deep and pleasing sound profile. Despite the differences in the top housing material, the presence of the POM bottom housing in both switches creates a similar sound experience in terms of depth and resonance.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy offers a translucent look that can enhance the appearance of RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing choice for those interested in customizing their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Bsun Olive may not have the same visual impact, but its unique sound profile adds a different dimension to the typing experience. While the materials used in the top housings differ, both switches prioritize sound quality, with the Box Navy focusing on a sharper and crisper sound, while the Olive emphasizes a deeper and more muted sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy and the Bsun Olive comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics. The different housing materials used in each switch result in distinct sound profiles, with the Box Navy offering a sharper, higher-pitched sound and the Bsun Olive delivering a deeper and more muted sound. However, the shared POM bottom housing in both switches ensures that they both offer a satisfying typing experience with a similar depth and resonance in sound. Whether you prefer a clear and resonant sound or a deeper and more muted one, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it is evident that the Box Navy has a heavier weight compared to the Olive. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, making it a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Olive has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Olive switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more robust typing experience may lean towards the Box Navy switch for its heavier forces. In terms of similarities, both switches offer a tactile feedback that enhances typing precision, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly longer than the Bsun Olive tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall in the range of shorter travel distances, with the Box Navy being the longer of the two. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Box Navy for its slightly shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Bsun Olive. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the feel of the key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience reminiscent of vintage keyboards. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive tactile switch boasts a deep and resonant sound due to its unique design and POM housing. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to individuals seeking a satisfying auditory experience during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box Navy offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, providing a highly pronounced tactile bump with each keypress. Meanwhile, the BSUN Olive switch provides an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel, creating an immersive typing sensation with a prominent amount of tactility. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to individuals looking for varying levels of feedback and actuation force.
In conclusion, if you prefer a heavy, clicky switch with a resonant sound and sharp tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a deep, resonant sound and pronounced tactile feedback, the BSUN Olive switch is a great option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a clicky switch that provides a resonant and immersive sound signature, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are the way to go. The sharp and invigorating feedback, along with the stiff bottom-out force, will give you a nostalgic feel reminiscent of vintage keyboards. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a deep and satisfying sound profile, along with a pronounced but not overpowering tactile feedback, then the Bsun Olive switches are the better choice for you. The combination of an accented tactile feel and a snappy bottom-out ensures a distinct typing sensation that is both enjoyable and responsive. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for key feel, sound, and typing experience, so choose wisely based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
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