Kailh Box Navy vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch. The Box Navy is perfect for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience and the satisfying sound and feel of a clicky switch, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. In contrast, the Jupiter Red offers a smooth and consistent keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, making it ideal for users who prefer a seamless typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Jupiter Red, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
While both the Box Navy and Jupiter Red switches share similar housing materials in their polycarbonate top housings, the differences lie in the nylon bottom housings. The Box Navy's nylon bottom housing provides a different typing experience than the Jupiter Red, with a potentially more impactful bottom-out sound and feel. This is due to the absorbing qualities of nylon, which create a deeper and fuller sound compared to harder plastics. Conversely, the Gateron Jupiter Red's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a similar typing experience, emphasizing the duller and rounder sound that nylon is known for.
Overall, the split qualities of the different housing materials in the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron Jupiter Red switches provide a unique typing experience for users. The impact of the bottom housing on the typing feel and sound upon bottoming out is distinct, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Both switches showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate for a crisper sound profile and nylon for a fuller sound experience, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch. The Box Navy requires 60 grams to actuate and 90 grams to bottom out, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red only requires 45 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, making it lighter and more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. While the Box Navy offers a heavier typing experience, the Jupiter Red provides a lighter touch that may be preferred by some users. In terms of actuation force and bottom out force, the two switches offer different options to cater to varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Box Navy has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter Red. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, it could impact the typing experience. Shorter travel distances are often preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while longer travel distances can provide a more satisfying keypress for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer unique benefits, so it's essential to consider how the travel distance will affect your typing experience before making a decision.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50, whereas the Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80.
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 typing experience, characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for various purposes and environments. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is known for its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. This creates an immersive typing sensation for those who enjoy a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch provides a polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience, offering smooth and buttery key travel with reduced friction. This results in a sleek and refined typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Taking all the available information into account, if you prefer a heavy typing experience with a sharp tactile feedback and a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is the ideal choice for you. However, if you value a smooth, seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile and medium-heavy actuation, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a clicky switch that offers a vintage feel and sound, then the Kailh Box Navy switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium actuation force, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches would be a perfect fit. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider these factors when making your decision.
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