Kailh Box Navy vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron Melodic both offer a clicky typing experience, but with their own unique characteristics. The Box Navy is ideal for those who enjoy a heavier typing experience and appreciate a loud and tactile click. On the other hand, the Melodic by Gateron provides a smoother and more modern take on the clicky switch, incorporating features like factory lubing and dual-railed stems for a buttery feel. While the Box Navy offers a vintage feel reminiscent of 80s buckling keyboards, the Melodic focuses on providing a classic clicky sound with added smoothness. 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
N/A
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Melodic both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. Visually, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the similar housing materials, the subtle differences in the composition of the plastics used may affect the overall typing experience.
While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal, the nylon bottom housings of the Box Navy and the Melodic may offer slightly varied typing experiences. The split between the qualities of each housing material may result in different sound and feel characteristics when using the switches. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, compared to the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key, may vary between the two switches.
Overall, the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Melodic showcase the importance of housing materials in creating distinct typing experiences. The differences in the sound profiles and overall feel of the switches can be attributed to the various qualities of polycarbonate and nylon plastics used in the construction of their housings. While both switches may offer similar benefits in terms of sound clarity and resonance from their polycarbonate top housings, the nylon bottom housings may contribute to subtle differences in the depth and texture of the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch to the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Kailh Box Navy has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Gateron Melodic, which is unknown. However, the Gateron Melodic has a lower bottom out force of 60 grams while the Kailh Box Navy has a higher bottom out force of 90 grams. This makes the Kailh Box Navy a heavier switch overall, suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic might be better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing feel, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or intense gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with weight being a key factor to consider in order to achieve the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that the Box Navy has a shorter travel distance at 3.6 mm compared to the Melodic's 4 mm. The Box Navy falls more towards the category of shorter travel distances, which is often favored by gamers for quick responses. On the other hand, the Melodic offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a deeper keystroke feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preferences, with the Box Navy catering to those seeking a faster response time and the Melodic appealing to users looking for a more substantial keystroke depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's personal typing style and preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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, both the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron Melodic switches offer a resonant and crunchy experience, providing a higher-pitched sound profile with clean and sharp characteristics that are reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying auditory experience that enhances your typing sessions.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is known for its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback. The strong and crisp tactile bump provides a prominent sensation with each keypress, requiring a higher amount of force compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch offers a buttery and invigorating typing experience, allowing for a smooth and fluid keystroke that is seamless and effortless. Both switches aim to provide a tactile and engaging feel, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron Melodic switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prioritize a heavy and resonant sound with sharp tactile feedback like the Box Navy provides, or prefer a smoother and buttery typing experience like the Melodic offers, you can expect a satisfying clicky switch experience with either option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, but rest assured that both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a higher bottom out force and a more resonant and crunchy sound profile, then the Box Navy switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smoother keystroke with a lower bottom out force and a buttery feel, then the Gateron Melodic switches would be a better fit for you. Both switches offer a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, so it's important to consider your typing preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for the most enjoyable typing experience.
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