Kailh Box Navy vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices that offer distinct typing experiences are the Kailh Box Navy and the Cherry MX Silent Red. The Box Navy switch is a clicky switch that provides a heavy typing experience with a sound signature reminiscent of vintage keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red is a linear switch that retains the slightly heftier feel of the MX Red but operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. If you value a loud and tactile typing experience, the Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the smoothness of a linear switch, the MX Silent Red may be more suitable. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Kailh Box Navy and Cherry MX Silent Red both utilize a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches may provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound, with a focus on the bottom-out sound and feel during use.
However, where the switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Kailh Box Navy features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This contrast in top housing materials may result in a noticeable difference in the sound produced when pressing down and releasing a key on each switch.
Overall, while both the Kailh Box Navy and Cherry MX Silent Red share a nylon bottom housing for a deep and full sound profile, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy produces a sharper sound, catering to those who prefer a crisper typing experience, while the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red offers a deeper sound, appealing to those seeking a softer typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will likely come down to personal preference in sound profile and keypress feel.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, which requires 45 grams. The Box Navy also has a higher bottom out force of 90 grams, while the bottom out force for the MX Silent Red is unknown. In terms of weight, the Box Navy is on the heavier side, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red is lighter, which may be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quick response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of these switches for faster input. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users in practical terms. Ultimately, whether you choose the Box Navy or MX Silent Red will likely come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and sound of the switch rather than their travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 offers a resonant and crunchy experience that harks back to classic mechanical keyboards, giving a clean and sharp auditory feedback with a high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch provides a more muted and thocky sound, with a low-pitched tone that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Depending on your preference for a louder, more traditional clicky sound or a quieter, more subdued typing experience, both switches offer unique audio profiles that can enhance your typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is characterized by its sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, providing a highly distinct and satisfying tactile bump with each keypress. The stiffness of the switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, creating a more intensive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a textured feel with noticeable friction when pressed, catering to users who prefer a slight texture for a more controlled typing experience. Whether you enjoy a more intense and tactile typing sensation or a smoother, friction-free feel, both switches offer distinct tactile feedback to suit your preferences.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offer contrasting but equally satisfying qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy provides a vintage, resonant clicky sound and a sharp, invigorating tactile feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more intense typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red offers a quieter, thocky sound and a textured feel, perfect for users who prefer a more subdued and controlled typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style, ensuring that you can find the perfect switch to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and noise level. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a loud clicky sound, the Box Navy switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, especially in noise-sensitive environments, the MX Silent Red switches would be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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