Kailh Box Navy vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and the Dareu Holly offer distinctive typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Kailh Box Navy is a clicky switch that provides a heavy typing experience with a sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, making it ideal for those who enjoy a sharp, crunchy, and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly is a tactile switch with a medium actuation force of 50g, offering a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements for a balanced and distinctive typing experience. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that appeal to different users, but ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual 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
50g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Dareu Holly, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Visually, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. However, the key difference lies in their bottom housings, with the Box Navy using nylon and the Holly also employing nylon. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
Despite sharing the same top housing material, the Kailh Box Navy and the Dareu Holly differ in their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel, thanks to its soft and sound-absorbing qualities. This differs from the top housing's influence on the sound when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound profile of a switch. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, with the combination of materials offering a balance between sharpness and depth in sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy and the Dareu Holly comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and clearer sound, their nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile or a rounder sound with more impact, understanding the influence of housing materials on switch performance can help you make an informed decision based on your typing preferences.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Dareu Holly tactile switch which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Box Navy is 90 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Holly is unknown. The Box Navy is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Holly offers a lighter actuation force, which may be more suitable for individuals who type for extended periods of time or engage in long gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Holly switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Navy switch. The traditional travel distance falls around 4 mm, making the Holly switch more in line with that standard. However, both switches are relatively close in terms of travel distance, so users may not notice a significant difference in feel between the two. Gamers may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Box Navy for faster response times, while those who prefer a deeper key press may gravitate towards the longer travel distance of the Holly switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 renowned for its resonant and crunchy qualities, providing a satisfying and immersive auditory experience reminiscent of vintage buckling spring keyboards. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, resulting in a balanced and distinctive sound signature that sets it apart from other tactile switches. The chirpy and clacky nature of the Holly switch adds a playful and distinct sound profile to your typing experience, while the sharp and crisp sound of the Box Navy delivers a more classic and nostalgia-inducing tone.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box Navy switch provides a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback that is both intense and pronounced, offering a truly satisfying typing sensation that is sure to please enthusiasts seeking a tactile switch with a strong tactile bump. With a high actuation force, the Box Navy requires a deliberate key press, lending a sense of precision to each keystroke. As for the Dareu Holly switch, information about its tactile feel is not available; however, with its medium 50g actuation force, it likely offers a more moderate tactile experience compared to the heavier Box Navy switch.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch that offers a heavy typing experience accompanied by a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Kailh Box Navy switch is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced sound profile with a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements along with a medium actuation force, the Dareu Holly switch is worth considering. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier keypress with a distinctive clicky sound, the Box Navy switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force with a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile, the Holly switches would suit your taste better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize heaviness and a resonant/crunchy sound profile or a lighter actuation force with a chirpy/clacky sound signature. Both switches offer their own distinct typing experiences, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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