Kailh Box Navy vs. Bsun Pine
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Bsun Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch to the Bsun Pine tactile switch, it's clear that both offer distinctive typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Box Navy is ideal for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience with a satisfying sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Bsun Pine stands out for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. If you value crisp tactility and fast action, the Pine switches may be the right choice for you. 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
Polycarbonate
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 Kailh Box Navy and Bsun Pine both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, the characteristics of the top housing are similar between the two switches, providing a consistent sound profile and aesthetic appeal.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box Navy and Pine feature nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile, which can offer a more tactile typing experience. Despite slight variations in design, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a similar typing sound quality that users can enjoy.
While the top and bottom housings may differ in material between the Kailh Box Navy and Bsun Pine, the qualities each housing material brings to the switch are split between the two. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique sound profile that can cater to users looking for a specific typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Bsun Pine tactile switch, it is evident that the Box Navy is heavier in both aspects. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, making it a switch with a substantial push feel. On the other hand, the Pine switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Pine switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without strain. In contrast, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Box Navy for a heavier push. Both switches offer different experiences based on the actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to tailor their keyboard to their preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Box Navy the longer-travel option, albeit only slightly. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. While the Box Navy offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, the Pine switch is not far behind and may still provide a satisfactory level of responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for either a slightly longer or slightly shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 comparing the sound of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch to the Bsun Pine tactile switch, the Box Navy is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of vintage buckling spring keyboards. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Pine switch are currently unknown, so it's hard to make a direct comparison. However, both switches are clicky in nature, so you can expect similar results in terms of audible feedback when typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Box Navy is described as sharp, invigorating, and stiff, offering a distinct tactile bump and requiring a higher actuation force. In contrast, the Bsun Pine switch is characterized by its accented tactile feedback, invigorating feel, and snappy response, providing a medium-level tactility without being overwhelming. Both switches offer a unique typing experience with their tactile feedback, but with slightly different characteristics, catering to different preferences in terms of feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Bsun Pine tactile switch both offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy provides a resounding and sharp sound with a stiff tactile bump, while the Pine switch offers a medium-level tactile bump with an invigorating and snappy feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the vintage-inspired clickiness of the Box Navy or the direct and quick tactility of the Pine switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a distinctive sound and sharp tactility, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is the way to go. The 90-gram bottom out force coupled with its resonant and crunchy sound profile make it a great choice for those who enjoy a classic and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, then the Bsun Pine tactile switch is the perfect option for you. Its accentuated tactility, invigorating feel, and snappy response create a unique and efficient typing experience that is sure to enhance your overall productivity and enjoyment. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force.
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