Kailh Box Navy vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron CAP Anniversary stand out as excellent choices, each offering unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Box Navy is ideal for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience and the distinctive sound and tactile feedback of a clicky switch, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switches boast a novel CAP structure designed for exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to aerodynamic principles and innovative stem features. While the Box Navy is known for its 'Sharp', 'Resonant', and 'Crunchy' attributes, the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preference for heaviness and sound versus smoothness and stability. 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
50g
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
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron CAP Anniversary, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature, making it ideal for generating clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design. As both switches share the same top housing material, users can expect similar acoustic properties and performance when typing on either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Kailh Box Navy features a nylon material while the Gateron CAP Anniversary also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, as it absorbs more sound and contributes to a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches, with the Kailh Box Navy potentially offering a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel due to its nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of a mechanical switch. While both the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron CAP Anniversary employ polycarbonate for their top housing, the differing bottom housing materials may lead to subtle nuances in sound and feel. Whether one prefers the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences in typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the specific sound profile and feel desired in a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch differ in weight. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the CAP Anniversary has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the Box Navy offering a heavier typing experience and the CAP Anniversary providing a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, we see that the Box Navy has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the CAP Anniversary has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Box Navy would provide a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking fast key presses. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary with its longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying, deep keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between a shorter or longer travel distance depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience one is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Navy switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, providing a high-pitched, clean, and sharp auditory experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is not provided. However, it is important to note that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box Navy switch is described as sharp, invigorating, and stiff, offering a strong tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keypress. In contrast, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is characterized as snappy, creamy, and polished, providing a super responsive and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer distinct tactile and typing sensations, catering to different preferences in switch feel.
Overall, if you are a newcomer looking for a heavy typing experience with a pronounced tactile feedback and sharp, resonant sound, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be a suitable choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a smooth and responsive typing experience with reduced friction and a creamy, polished feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring that you will achieve satisfying results with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, along with sharp tactile feedback and a vintage feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch would be an ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with snappy and creamy responsiveness, along with a polished finish and reduced friction, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
