Kailh Box Navy vs. Zuoce Bubblegum
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Box Navy is perfect for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience and the loud, satisfying clicky sound that harkens back to vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch offers a unique blend of eye-catching colorways and a clacky typing experience that is sure to captivate keyboard enthusiasts looking to explore new horizons. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM+SL
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Zuoce Bubblegum, one significant difference is in their top housing. The Box Navy features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Bubblegum uses a POM top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy is more likely to be translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects, unlike the opaque POM top housing of the Bubblegum.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Box Navy and Bubblegum switches use nylon for their bottom housing material. Nylon is revered in the keyboard community for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, creating a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel will be more prominent during use.
In terms of overall performance, the choice of housing materials for the Kailh Box Navy and the Zuoce Bubblegum impacts not only the sound profile but also the overall typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy creates a clearer and more resonant sound, while the POM top housing of the Bubblegum offers a deeper and more muted sound. However, with both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a similar deep and full sound profile that absorbs more sound for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch differ significantly in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Box Navy has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Bubblegum's 37 grams, making it a heavier switch to press. Additionally, the Box Navy requires 90 grams of force to bottom out, while the Bubblegum only needs 45 grams. This means that the Box Navy offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Bubblegum provides a lighter touch that is ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, making them ideal choices for those looking for quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distances for fast-paced gameplay. However, for those who prefer a more substantial keypress or find shorter distances too abrupt, the Box Navy with its slightly longer travel distance may be the better option. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific feel you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Bubblegum has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bubblegum for $2.30.
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 switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling spring keyboards. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch provides a clacky and sharp noise that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Box Navy offering a more traditional clicky sound, while the Bubblegum switch provides a unique and lively typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is sharp, invigorating, and stiff, providing a strong tactile bump and requiring more force to actuate compared to other switches. On the contrary, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch offers a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback, giving a lively and rebound feel when typing. Again, these switches cater to different preferences in tactile feedback, with the Box Navy offering a more intense and pronounced tactile bump, and the Bubblegum switch providing a more playful and responsive typing experience.
Overall, if you are looking for a heavy and tactile typing experience with a sharp clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a bouncy and lively typing feel with a sharp clacky sound, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as both offer distinct qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a high level of tactility and a distinct clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a smooth linear switch and a satisfyingly clacky sound, then the Zuoce Bubblegum switches would be a better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what type of typing experience you value most. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community, so choose wisely based on what best suits your individual needs.
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