Kailh Box Navy vs. Bsun Dragon Fruit
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Bsun Dragon Fruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, there are distinct characteristics that differentiate the two. The Box Navy is ideal for those who prefer a heavy typing experience and enjoy the crisp sound and tactile feedback of a clicky switch reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Dragon Fruit switches appeal to tactile enthusiasts with their long pole stem providing a sharp bottom-out sensation and significant tactile feedback. While the Box Navy is described as 'Sharp', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy', and 'Stiff', the Dragon Fruit is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. These general pointers can help you decide which switch may be better suited to your typing 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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box Navy and the Bsun Dragon Fruit utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The clear housing of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics and sound characteristics, these switches share similarities due to their common use of polycarbonate for the top housing.
In contrast, the Kailh Box Navy features a nylon bottom housing, while the Bsun Dragon Fruit also opts for nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is favored for creating 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 when typing on switches that use nylon for their bottom housing. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon, showcasing similar qualities in the bottom-out sound and feel.
The use of different materials for the top and bottom housing in switches like the Kailh Box Navy and the Bsun Dragon Fruit allows for a split in the qualities each material brings. The bottom housing has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound emitted when releasing a key. This division of housing materials adds complexity and depth to the overall typing experience, as users can appreciate the distinct characteristics of both the top and bottom housing in these switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Dragon Fruit's lighter 45 grams. Additionally, the Box Navy requires a bottom out force of 90 grams, making it a heavier option, while the Dragon Fruit bottoms out at 65 grams, which is medium-heavy. This means that the Box Navy provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel, while the Dragon Fruit offers a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer clicky and tactile feedback, but the weight difference will ultimately determine the typing experience and preferences of the user.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Navy being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dragon Fruit for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Box Navy. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Dragon Fruit has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dragon Fruit for $3.83.
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 is known for its resonant and crunchy characteristics, providing a high-pitched and immersive typing experience reminiscent of vintage buckling spring keyboards. On the other hand, the Bsun Dragon Fruit switch has not been specifically described in terms of sound qualities. However, both switches being tactile and clicky in nature, it can be inferred that they will produce distinct audible feedback when typing, with the Dragon Fruit likely offering a clacky sound signature to complement its tactile feedback.
In the realm of feel, both the Box Navy and Dragon Fruit switches share similar descriptors such as sharp, invigorating, and a pronounced tactile bump. This suggests that both switches provide a satisfying tactile experience with a noticeable bump at the actuation point, making them ideal choices for individuals who prefer switches with a strong tactile response. Additionally, the Dragon Fruit switch is described as accented and snappy, further enhancing the typing sensation with a balance of tactility and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy and Bsun Dragon Fruit switches offer unique yet comparable qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box Navy is favored for its resonant sound signature and hefty typing experience reminiscent of vintage keyboards, the Dragon Fruit stands out with its sharp tactile bump and lively typing feel. Both switches cater to enthusiasts who appreciate a tactile and audible typing experience, providing a satisfying feedback with each keypress. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as both switches offer a distinct typing experience that is sure to enhance your time spent at the keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a sharp, distinctive clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a satisfying tactile bump and a lively, clacky sound signature, then the Bsun Dragon Fruit switches would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force. Assess what you value most in a keyboard switch and choose accordingly to enhance your typing experience.
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