Kailh Box Navy vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and Akko V3 Crystal Pro offer distinctly different typing experiences. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a satisfying click and tactile feedback, the Box Navy switches are a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and silent typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro switches with their polycarbonate construction may be more suited to your preferences. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
One key difference between the Kailh Box Navy and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro lies in their housing materials. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, the Box Navy also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the Box Navy offering a more well-rounded typing experience compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's crisper sound profile.
Despite both switches sharing a polycarbonate top housing, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its consistent use of polycarbonate throughout the entire housing, including the bottom. This results in a switch that maintains a sharp, resonant sound profile across the board. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials leads to a more nuanced typing experience, where the qualities of each material are distinctly felt in different aspects of the switch's sound and feel.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate in their top housing, making them ideal choices for RGB lighting setups. However, the Kailh Box Navy's unique combination of polycarbonate and nylon materials provides a more diverse typing experience, with the two materials working together to create a balanced sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing results in a more uniform sound profile, emphasizing crispness and clarity in every key press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference for sound and feel, as well as the desired aesthetic for your keyboard setup.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch's lighter 48 grams. Additionally, the Box Navy also has a heavier bottom out force of 90 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro has a lower bottom out force of 60 grams. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Box Navy provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the V3 Crystal Pro make it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Navy. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for quicker response times. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be very noticeable during regular use, but those who prefer a slightly deeper keystroke may lean towards the Akko V3 Crystal Pro. Overall, whether you choose the Box Navy or the V3 Crystal Pro, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy characteristics, providing a higher-pitched sound profile with a clean and sharp sound reminiscent of vintage keyboards. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy sound, adding a unique squeak to the typing experience for a brighter and more cheerful auditory feedback. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and setup.
Moving on to the feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is described as sharp, invigorating, and stiff, offering a tactile bump that is intense and distinct with each keypress. In contrast, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a bouncy and polished sensation, offering a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel for a more lively and refined typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile feedback that can cater to individual preferences for typing feel and performance.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a heavy and tactile typing experience with a more resonant and crunchy sound, the Box Navy switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and bouncier typing feel with a chirpy sound profile, the V3 Crystal Pro switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who enjoys a heavy typing experience with a loud clicky sound, then the Kailh Box Navy switches would be the ideal choice for you. The 90-gram bottom out force and sharp, crunchy sound profile make them perfect for those looking for a nostalgic feel reminiscent of vintage keyboards. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience with a bright and chirpy sound, then the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switches would be more suited to your preferences. With a 60-gram bottom out force and a polished, bouncy feel, these switches offer a different typing experience that may appeal to those looking for a unique and modern touch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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