Kailh Box Navy vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and the Durock Dolphin present contrasting options to suit different preferences. The Box Navy is a clicky switch, known for its heavy typing experience and distinctive sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin is a linear switch, providing a silent typing experience ideal for office environments or noise-sensitive workspaces. While the Box Navy offers a sharp, resonant, and invigorating feel, the Dolphin is characterized by its polished, muted, and low-pitched typing experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on whether you prioritize a tactile and audible typing experience or a silent and smooth one. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
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 spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Durock Dolphin are quite similar as both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is also ideal for switches with clear housings, making it perfect for those who want to showcase RGB lighting. However, the Box Navy and Dolphin differ in their bottom housing material, with the Box Navy having a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing.
While both the Box Navy and the Durock Dolphin share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, they each feature a different bottom housing material. The Box Navy's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Dolphin also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deeper and fuller sound experience as the Box Navy. This combination of materials in the switches results in a unique sound profile that caters to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
The impact of the housing materials on the sound and feel of these switches is evident in how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing plays a role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This division of qualities gives each switch a distinct typing experience, with the Box Navy offering a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, and the Durock Dolphin delivering a deeper and fuller sound with both housings made of nylon.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch differ significantly. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to None grams for the Dolphin. This means that the Box Navy requires more force to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the Box Navy has a higher bottom out force of 90 grams, while the Dolphin has a lighter bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Box Navy switch better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Dolphin switch would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, we can see that the Box Navy has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Dolphin's 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The difference of 0.2 mm between the two may not be significant to some users, but those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses might lean towards the Dolphin switch. On the other hand, users looking for a quicker, more responsive feel may find the slightly shorter travel distance of the Box Navy more to their liking. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance that can provide a snappy typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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 clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy sound profile, providing a high-pitched and immersive auditory experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch produces a muted and low-pitched sound, keeping noise levels to a minimum and offering a softer, quieter typing experience ideal for office settings. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Box Navy being more resonant and crunchy, while the Dolphin is more muted and low-pitched.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch provides a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience, with a strong and crisp bump that is prominent with each keypress. This creates a tactile typing sensation that is both intense and satisfying for those who prefer a switch with more resistance. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin switch offers a polished feel, with a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes typing on the Dolphin switch a sleek and comfortable experience, perfect for those who value a smooth typing feel without the tactile feedback of a clicky switch.
Overall, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch provide distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a heavy typing experience with a high-pitched and crunchy sound, the Box Navy switch is the way to go. However, if you want a silent typing experience with a smooth and polished feel, the Dolphin switch is the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Box Navy or the Dolphin, you can expect a satisfying and tailored typing experience that matches your specific needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a silent switch with medium actuation force that is perfect for office environments, the Durock Dolphin linear switches are the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and the environment in which you will be using your keyboard. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider your priorities before making your selection.
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