Kailh Box Navy vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that delivers a heavy typing experience accompanied by a satisfying clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy switch is the ideal choice. These switches boast the heftiness and sound signature that bring to mind the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switch is the one for you. With its gentle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile, typing on these switches provides a more subtle and refined experience. However, let's delve deeper into their characteristics to help you make the best decision for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and SP-Star Duck both use polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. So, if you are looking for a switch with a similar sound and aesthetic appeal, both the Box Navy and Duck are excellent options.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a difference between the two switches. The Box Navy features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Duck utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in bottom housing materials can impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
When it comes to the overall feel and sound of the switch, the bottom housing has a more significant impact when pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the qualities of the bottom housing, such as the depth and fullness of the sound, will be more noticeable during typing. The top housing, on the other hand, will play a role in creating a distinct sound when you let go of a key.
In summary, the Kailh Box Navy and SP-Star Duck share a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those seeking a clear and resonant sound. However, the Box Navy's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the overall sharp sound profile. The difference in bottom housing materials can affect the bottom-out sound and feel, with the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Box Navy switch has an actuation force of 60 grams, making it relatively light, while the Duck switch's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force, with the Box Navy switch being heavier at 90 grams, and the Duck switch with a comparatively lighter bottom out force of 58 grams.
Considering weight is important for various reasons. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows for comfortable typing over extended periods, which is especially useful for keyboards used at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience often find satisfaction in switches with heavier forces, providing a stronger push feel.
While the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches differ, it is important to note that both switches provide desirable options for different preferences. The Kailh Box Navy offers a lighter actuation force yet a heavier bottom out force, giving users a distinct typing sensation. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch presents a medium bottom out force with an unknown actuation force, providing a balance between typing comfort and response. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the Duck has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Box Navy has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances. The Duck's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper keystroke and a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Box Navy's slightly shorter travel distance may be favored by gamers, as it allows for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is well-known for its heavy typing experience and vintage sound signature reminiscent of buckling keyboards from the 80s. When typing on the Box Navy switch, you can expect a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean and sharp, with a distinct crunchiness commonly associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience. The Duck switch has a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate auditory experience suitable for various purposes. Its sound is clean and crispy without any distinct characteristics. In terms of feel, the Box Navy switch offers sharp and invigorating tactile feedback with a strong and crisp tactile bump. This switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out, providing a sturdy and immersive typing sensation. The Duck switch, however, offers a mild and approachable typing experience. It has a buttery and polished feel, offering a smooth and uniform keystroke experience with reduced friction. Overall, if you prefer a heavy and vintage typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile experience with a mild and polished feel, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is the perfect option. Both switches provide their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, 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. Their heftiness and sound profile hark back to the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switches are perfect. They offer a gentle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile.
In terms of sound, the Box Navy switches provide a resonant and crunchy experience, with a higher-pitched and immersive auditory profile. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a neutral sound profile, suitable for most purposes and environments.
In terms of feel, the Box Navy switches have a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, providing a distinct and immersive typing sensation. In contrast, the Duck switches offer a mild, buttery, and polished feel, resulting in a more approachable and smooth typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switches and the SP-Star Duck tactile switches depends on your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a heavy, clicky, and immersive typing feel and sound, opt for the Box Navy switches. However, if you prefer a more subtle, smooth, and middle-ground typing experience, the Duck switches are the way to go. Consider your personal preferences and typing requirements to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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