An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a heavy and satisfying typing experience, as well as an unmistakable clicky sound, then both the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Phoenix switches are worth considering. The Box Navy switches are particularly renowned for their heftiness and sound signature, reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, the Phoenix switches stand out with their unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. Both switches offer a distinct crunchy feedback that many enthusiasts appreciate. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your specific preferences and needs.
60g
N/A
90g
62g
1.80 mm
1.80 mm
3.60 mm
3.30 mm
No
Yes
Box
Standard
POM
POM
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate
Nylon
Polycarbonate
Plate (3-pin)
PCB (5-pin)
Kailh Box spring
Stainless steel
The Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Phoenix have similar housing materials in terms of their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for more vibrant and visually appealing effects. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound and aesthetics from the polycarbonate top housings of both switches.
However, the Box Navy and the Phoenix differ in terms of their bottom housings. The Box Navy features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the contrary, the Phoenix incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This can create a noticeable contrast in sound between the two switches when bottoming out keys. Therefore, if the bottom housing material is a significant factor for your typing experience, the choice between the Box Navy's nylon bottom housing and the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing becomes crucial.
Furthermore, it's important to note that the specific housing materials in each switch play a role in different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, directly influencing the tactile feedback when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing has more influence over the sound when you release a key, affecting the auditory feedback. Consequently, the use of different materials for the top and bottom housings can result in a nuanced typing experience, with variations in sound and feel depending on whether you are pressing down or releasing a key.
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams, whereas the actuation force of the Phoenix is unavailable, making it unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Navy has a heavier force of 90 grams, whereas the Phoenix has a comparatively lighter force of 62 grams.
Considering the weight of the switches, the Box Navy provides a heavier typing experience overall. This heavier actuation force and bottom out force may be preferred by individuals who value a stronger push feel, as it contributes to a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch offers a lighter bottom out force, allowing for a potentially more comfortable typing experience for longer periods, which might be ideal for work or extended gaming sessions.
It is worth noting that due to the unavailability of the Phoenix's actuation force, it is challenging to directly compare it with the Box Navy in terms of actuation. However, assuming that the actuation forces are similar or in the same range, users are likely to receive comparable results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the switches should be based on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
When it comes to the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Box Navy has a longer travel distance, measuring at 3.6 mm, while the Phoenix has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. If you are someone who enjoys a more traditional travel distance, the Box Navy might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix could be more appealing. It's important to consider personal preferences as well, as some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, while others may enjoy the added depth. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your specific preferences and desired typing experience.
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50, whereas the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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.
When it comes to sound, both the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Phoenix clicky switches offer a crunchy sound profile commonly associated with clicky switches. However, the Box Navy is known for its resonant sound, which provides a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix switches have a unique under-skirt click mechanism that delivers a crystalline and sparkling type of sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Box Navy switches are described as sharp, invigorating, and stiff. These switches offer a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Their invigorating nature provides pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, the stiff characteristic of the Box Navy requires more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches, resulting in a more physically demanding typing experience.
On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix switches are described as polished. This indicates that they have a smooth and refined finish, which leads to a sleek typing experience. The use of high-quality materials and/or factory lubing reduces friction, resulting in smooth key travel. While the exact tactile feedback of the Phoenix switches is not mentioned, the polished feel suggests a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Phoenix clicky switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy provides a resonant and sharp sound profile, along with a sharp, invigorating, and stiff feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix switches offer a crunchy sound profile and a polished feel. If you're looking for a heavy typing experience with a vintage feel, the Box Navy switches would be a great choice. If you prefer a unique clicky switch with a smooth and refined typing experience, the Phoenix switches would be a suitable option. However, it's important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard layout, keycap compatibility, and typing style when choosing between these switches. Overall, both switches provide satisfying results, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
To sum up, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and enjoy the classic sound and feel of vintage buckling keyboards, then the Kailh Box Navy clicky switches are the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 90 grams, these switches offer a heavy and satisfying typing experience. The resonant and crunchy sound profile adds to the immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Box Navy switches provide a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, making each keypress distinct and impactful. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a unique clicky switch, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switches are a great option. With their under-skirt click mechanism, these switches offer a crystalline and sparkling typing experience. While they also have a crunchy sound profile, the Phoenix switches are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Phoenix clicky switches depends on your preference for typing force and the specific sound and feel you desire.