Kailh Box Navy vs. Bsun Guyu
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Bsun Guyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Bsun Guyu linear switch, the decision ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a distinct sound signature and tactile feedback, the Box Navy switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with a unique auditory depth and clarity, the Guyu linear switches would be the perfect fit. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
21mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Bsun Guyu, it is evident that they both offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Box Navy utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Guyu's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. While they differ in sound profile, both materials are known for their durability and clarity, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Box Navy features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Guyu's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. While the materials differ, both nylon and POM are respected for their ability to enhance the overall typing experience through their unique sound profiles. This highlights the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in creating a well-rounded typing experience.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switch, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This distribution allows for a balanced typing experience that combines the unique sound profiles of both the top and bottom housing materials, resulting in a satisfying typing experience for users of both the Kailh Box Navy and the Bsun Guyu switches.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Bsun Guyu linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Guyu's lighter 45 grams. Similarly, the Box Navy has a higher bottom out force of 90 grams, while the Guyu has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Box Navy, with its heavier forces, while those who prefer a lighter touch may prefer the Guyu switch. The weight of the switch is an important factor to consider, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer lighter switches may find it easier to type for extended periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals who appreciate a stronger push feel may opt for switches with heavier forces to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Bsun Guyu linear switch will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Bsun Guyu linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback while typing, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the Box Navy and the Guyu, so you can expect similar results when using either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Guyu has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Guyu for $3.70.
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 qualities, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Bsun Guyu linear switch offers a unique clacky sound characterized by sharp and snappy tones that create a crisp, bright, and percussive bottom-out sound. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences depending on personal preference and accompanying factors like the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is described as sharp, invigorating, and stiff, offering a tactile experience with a strong, crisp bump and high feedback intensity that intensifies each keypress. In contrast, the Bsun Guyu linear switch provides a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing sensation with its medium weight and smooth keystrokes attributed to the high-grade UPE stem. The Guyu switch delivers an effortless glide with resonant feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience with a balance of elements designed to provide unmatched typing rhythm and comfort.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy and Bsun Guyu switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Box Navy provides a resonant, crunchy sound and sharp, invigorating feel ideal for heavy typists seeking a vintage tactile experience, the Guyu linear switch offers a clacky sound and creamy, frictionless feel for those looking for a smooth and effortless typing sensation with bright, crisp tones. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can achieve similar levels of satisfaction with these switches based on the specific qualities that appeal to you.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a loud and satisfying click sound, then the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch would be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience with a unique auditory profile, then the Bsun Guyu linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. Consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between the Kailh Box Navy and Bsun Guyu switches to ensure the best typing experience for your needs.
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