Kailh Box Navy vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, there are distinct differences to consider. The Box Navy switch offers a heavy typing experience with a satisfying sound signature and pronounced tactility, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch provides a lighter touch with crisp and audible feedback, making each keystroke lively and responsive. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
37g
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
3.70 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
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and Jerrzi Orange switches are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal from both the Box Navy and Jerrzi Orange switches in terms of their polycarbonate top housing.
While the top housing of both switches is made of polycarbonate, the bottom housing materials differ between the Kailh Box Navy and Jerrzi Orange switches. The Box Navy features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Jerrzi Orange also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, users can expect a consistent sound profile between the two switches due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing.
Overall, the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and Jerrzi Orange switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, the use of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of the sound characteristics they produce. The Box Navy offers a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, while the Jerrzi Orange provides a deeper and fuller sound profile with the same combination of materials. Ultimately, users can expect a unique typing experience from each switch based on the distribution of housing materials within the switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch differ significantly. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Orange's lighter 37 grams. Additionally, the Box Navy requires a bottom out force of 90 grams, while the bottom out force for the Orange is unknown. The Box Navy offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. In contrast, the lighter forces of the Orange switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, the Box Navy has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Orange with 3.7 mm. While the difference is minimal, it may impact the user experience depending on individual preferences. For those who prioritize faster response times, the Box Navy's shorter travel distance may be more appealing. On the other hand, the slightly longer travel distance of the Orange switch may provide a more profound keypress feel for those who enjoy a more substantial depth when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer similar travel distances, making them suitable choices for users seeking a balanced typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, providing a high-pitched sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards with a clean and sharp tone. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch produces a subdued and clacky sound, offering a more subtle and dampened sound signature with a sharp and snappy tone. Both switches deliver distinct auditory feedback, but the Box Navy provides a more intense and immersive sound experience compared to the Orange's livelier and percussive sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress. This intense feedback creates an immersive typing sensation suitable for those who prefer a more tactile switch. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch provides a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing strain on the fingers. This lightweight actuation makes typing effortless and comfortable, ideal for extended typing sessions for gaming, school, or work.
Overall, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences for typing experiences. The Kailh Box Navy switch excels in providing a heavy and tactile typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile, while the Jerrzi Orange switch offers a clacky and lightweight typing experience with a subdued and lively sound signature. Depending on whether you prefer a more intense and tactile typing experience or a lighter and easier-to-press feel, both switches provide unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy and tactile typing experience with a clicky sound profile reminiscent of vintage keyboards, then the Box Navy switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and responsive typing experience with a clacky sound profile that enhances your typing rhythm, then the Jerrzi Orange switches might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a heavy tactile feel and resonant sound (Box Navy) or a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound (Jerrzi Orange). Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a customized and satisfying typing experience.
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