Kailh Box Navy vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and the Cherry MX Red stand out as popular options, each offering unique characteristics suited to different preferences. The Box Navy is ideal for those who prefer a heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile that harkens back to vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, the MX Red provides a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience with responsiveness and auditory depth. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different types of typists. 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
N/A
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
Nylon
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 the Cherry MX Red switches are both designed to enhance the sound profile and typing experience. The Box Navy features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile ideal for RGB lighting, while the MX Red utilizes a nylon top housing for a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffer polycarbonate material of the Box Navy results in a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon material of the MX Red absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box Navy and the MX Red switches use nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. The softness of nylon absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a more muted and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. While the differences in top housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles, the similar nylon bottom housing material allows for a consistent typing experience across both switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Kailh Box Navy and the Cherry MX Red switches highlights different sound profiles and typing experiences. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy produces a crisp and sharp sound, ideal for RGB lighting, while the softer nylon top housing of the MX Red creates a deeper and fuller sound. The nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent typing experience, with the softer material absorbing sound for a more muted and round profile. Ultimately, the housing materials play a key role in shaping the overall sound and feel of these mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch to the Cherry MX Red linear switch, we see a notable difference in actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the MX Red's lighter 45 grams. Additionally, the Box Navy possesses a higher bottom out force of 90 grams, while the MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Box Navy provides a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel, which may be preferred by those seeking a more tactile response. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the MX Red makes it easier on the fingers during extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a heavier or lighter touch when it comes to typing or gaming.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, the Box Navy has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the MX Red's 4 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the MX Red being more on the standard side. For those who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Box Navy may be preferred. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the MX Red can provide a more substantial key press feel for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and more mellow auditory tone. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall sound profile you enjoy while typing.
In terms of feel, the Box Navy switch is characterized by a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as textured, offering noticeable friction when pressed for a different typing experience. The feel of a switch is crucial for comfort and typing speed, so selecting a switch that aligns with your preferred level of tactile feedback and actuation force is essential for an optimal typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch both offer distinctive sound profiles and tactile feedback that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a higher-pitched sound and strong tactile feedback, the Box Navy switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother linear feel with a deeper and mellow sound, the Cherry MX Red switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches and finding the one that best suits your typing style and preferences is key in selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a loud clicky sound and a vintage feel, the Kailh Box Navy switches would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with a slightly heftier feel and a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Red switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of typing feel, sound signature, and bottom-out force. Whether you choose the Box Navy for its sharp tactility and crunchy sound, or the MX Red for its thocky feel and low-pitched sound, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
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