Kailh Box Navy vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Navy and the Cherry Nixie mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences to consider. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience and appreciate the loud, satisfying clicky sound of each key press, then the Box Navy switches would be an ideal option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more linear typing experience with a textured feel, the Cherry Nixie switches might be more to your liking. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics and benefits, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and Cherry Nixie switches both have similar nylon bottom housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The use of nylon as a housing material in both switches allows for sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality between the two switches.
In contrast, the Kailh Box Navy features a polycarbonate top housing, which gives it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate as a plastic material contributes to a more clear and resonant sound quality. This differs from the Cherry Nixie, which utilizes a nylon top housing known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice of top housing material between the two switches results in distinct sound characteristics, with the Box Navy emphasizing clarity and sharpness while the Nixie offers a richer and fuller sound experience.
Overall, the difference in top housing materials between the Kailh Box Navy and Cherry Nixie switches leads to varying sound profiles when typing. While the Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing enhances clarity and sharpness, the Nixie's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share a commonality in their nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for sound characteristics, whether one prefers a crisper sound with the Box Navy or a richer sound with the Nixie.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch are both significant factors that can affect typing experience. The Box Navy has a lighter actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Nixie's 63.5 grams. However, the Box Navy has a heavier bottom out force of 90 grams, while the Nixie's bottom out force is 80 grams. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, with the Box Navy offering a more pronounced click due to its clicky nature, while the Nixie offers a smoother linear feel. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Nixie, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may be more inclined towards the Box Navy. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Box Navy has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Nixie boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Box Navy offers a quicker response time due to its shorter distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster keystroke registration. On the other hand, the Nixie provides a slightly more substantial depth to each keystroke, which could be appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile and pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the typing experience each individual is seeking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie 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 clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, akin to the sound of vintage buckling spring keyboards from the 80s. The Cherry Nixie linear switch, on the other hand, provides a thocky and low-pitched typing sound that is deep and satisfying. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the Box Navy excels in sharpness and crispness, while the Nixie focuses on a more mellow and bass-heavy tone.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is known for its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch offers a textured sensation, with noticeable friction when pressed. This difference in tactile feedback results in a more intense and pronounced typing experience with the Box Navy, while the Nixie appeals to those who prefer a subtle texture during typing.
Overall, if you are looking for a heavy and tactile typing experience with a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a smoother and more low-pitched sound with a textured typing sensation, the Cherry Nixie linear switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch or the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a distinct clicky sound and sharp tactile feedback, the Box Navy switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep, satisfying thocky sound with a smoother typing experience, the Cherry Nixie switches might be more to your liking. Consider the sound and feel profiles of each switch carefully to determine which one aligns better with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy and Cherry Nixie switches will depend on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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