Kailh Box Navy vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Kailh Box Navy and the Zuoce Lavender. The Box Navy is a clicky switch that offers a heavy typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback and a nostalgic sound signature reminiscent of vintage keyboards. On the other hand, the Lavender is a linear switch known for its exceptional smoothness and ease of pressing, coupled with a crisp and clacky sound profile. Both switches have their own unique characteristics 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
48g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Z1 (Ly blend)
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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Zuoce Lavender, it is clear that they both prioritize sound profiles, but in different ways. The Box Navy utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, while the Lavender opts for POM which produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite this difference, both switches aim to provide a unique auditory experience for users. Additionally, the Lavender also incorporates POM for its bottom housing, further enhancing the deep and muted sound profile, while the Box Navy uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon.
One notable similarity between the two switches is the use of POM in one of their housing components. Both the Lavender's top and bottom housing are made from POM, contributing to a consistent sound profile that is deep and muted throughout. In contrast, the Box Navy varies its housing materials with polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom, creating a mix of sharp and deep tones depending on which part of the switch is being engaged. Despite these differences, the switches both prioritize creating a pleasing and unique sound experience for users, showcasing the importance of housing materials in switch design.
Furthermore, the choice of housing materials also impacts the overall feel of typing on each switch. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. This means that the type of plastic used in each component can affect not only the sound but also the tactile feedback experienced by users. By understanding how the combination of different housing materials can affect sound and feel, keyboard enthusiasts can choose switches that best suit their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Zuoce Lavender linear switch. The Box Navy requires 60 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 90 grams to bottom out, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Lavender switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a more lightweight option for typing for extended periods or long gaming sessions. Both switches offer unique experiences based on the weight preference of the user, with the Box Navy catering to those who prefer heavier forces and the Lavender catering to users who prefer a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them good options for those looking for quick and responsive feedback. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may be noticeable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each individual is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience, with a higher-pitched and clean sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch provides a clacky and crisp sound signature, creating a satisfying typing experience with each keypress. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Box Navy leaning towards a sharper and more immersive sound, while the Lavender delivers a bright and percussive sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Box Navy is known for its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, offering a high-intensity typing experience with a prominent tactile bump and firm actuation force. Conversely, the Zuoce Lavender provides an easy-to-press sensation with gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Box Navy leans towards a more intense and forceful typing experience, while the Lavender delivers a smoother and low-impact feel.
In conclusion, if you prefer a heavy typing experience with a sharp and immersive sound profile, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is a perfect choice. However, if you seek a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience with a bright and percussive sound, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you'll get a satisfying typing experience regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a loud and resonant clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch would be the perfect choice for you. The 90-gram bottom out force and sharp, invigorating tactile feedback offer a unique and immersive typing sensation reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and easier-to-press linear switch with a medium-light 53-gram bottom out force, the Zuoce Lavender switch is ideal. The Lavender switch provides a crisp and clacky sound profile, making each keystroke satisfying and comfortable. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will come down to your preference for typing experience, sound signature, and tactile feedback.
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