Kailh Box Navy vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it's clear that each offers unique benefits to different types of keyboard users. The Box Navy is ideal for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience and the satisfying sound and tactility of a clicky switch, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe is perfect for those who prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a subtle sound profile, thanks to Gateron's dual rail mechanism. 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
1.80 mm
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
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Lunar Probe feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate, resulting in a clearer and more 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 elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share similar housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switch can result in differences in sound and feel. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more pronounced when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the qualities of the top housing, influencing the sound when releasing a key, will be more prominent during key release. This distribution of housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with varying levels of sound and feel throughout each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Lunar Probe offer similar sound profiles due to their shared use of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings. The differences in sound and feel between the two switches are likely to be subtle, as the qualities of each housing material are evenly distributed throughout the switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and aesthetics, as both switches offer a combination of sharp, high-pitched sound from polycarbonate and deeper, fuller sound from nylon.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch are quite different. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's lighter 45 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Box Navy is much heavier at 90 grams, whereas the Lunar Probe only bottoms out at 50 grams. These differences in force make the Box Navy ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Lunar Probe is better suited for those who enjoy a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that both switches offer the same tactile feedback and keypress experience in terms of travel distance. Users can expect similar results when typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches. Despite having the same travel distance, the mechanisms of these switches vary in terms of their clicky nature and linear operation. The Box Navy clicky switch provides a tactile bump and audible click upon actuation, making it ideal for typists who prefer a more pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe linear switch offers a smoother keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click, catering to users who prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding feedback and noise level.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience reminiscent of vintage keyboards. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is not available, but it is important to remember that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box Navy offers a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, making each keypress distinct and engaging. With a stiff actuation force, typing on these switches can be a more demanding yet rewarding experience. Unfortunately, details on the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe switch are not provided.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile and audibly satisfying typing experience, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be an excellent choice. The Gateron Lunar Probe switch, with its smooth linear action and stable keypresses, may appeal to those seeking a quieter and more consistent typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so selecting between them would depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider your typing preferences and desired typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a crisp tactile bump and a high-pitched clicky sound, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, pre-lubed linear feel with stable and consistent keypresses, then the Gateron Lunar Probe switches are the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
