Kailh Box Navy vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are a fan of a heavy typing experience and enjoy the satisfying click sound and strong tactile feedback of a switch, then the Box Navy switches are the perfect fit for you. These switches are reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, and the sharp, resonant, invigorating, crunchy, and stiff characteristics of the Box Navy switches truly enhance the typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a unique feel of weightiness without a huge tactile bump, then the Plum switches are a great option. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum switches provide a more neutral and mild tactile experience while still offering a stepped feel. Both switches have their own distinct advantages, and choosing the best one for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision 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
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Kailh Plum, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, share similar qualities and effects on the sound profile of the switches. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, creating a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent property of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics when using either the Box Navy or Plum switches.
However, the major difference between the two switches lies in the bottom housing material. The Box Navy employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Plum uses a similar nylon material for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, the Box Navy's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to the Plum switch. Moreover, the qualities brought by the bottom housing material have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the key when pressed.
In summary, while the polycarbonate top housings of the Kailh Box Navy and the Kailh Plum produce similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, the difference lies in the bottom housing materials. The Box Navy's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, enhancing the typing experience in terms of roundness and dullness. On the other hand, the Plum's nylon bottom housing contributes to a similar effect. However, the impact of the bottom housing material is more evident in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, one can see noticeable differences. The Box Navy switch has an actuation force of 60 grams, which means it requires a relatively lighter force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Plum switch does not provide the specific actuation force measurement. However, the Plum switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which indicates a heavier force is needed to press the key all the way down compared to the Box Navy switch.
Considering the weight aspect, the lighter actuation force of the Box Navy switch may be preferred by those who desire a keyboard suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. This lighter actuation force enables a smoother and potentially more comfortable typing experience over extended periods. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, the heavier actuation force of the Plum switch, if available, could offer a more satisfying push feel, providing a tactile feedback that some users may prefer.
It is worth noting that without the specific actuation force information for the Plum switch, the comparison becomes somewhat limited. However, based on the available data, it can be determined that the Box Navy switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Plum switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force. Both switches, though having different force measurements, could potentially offer similar results in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience, depending on the user's personal preference.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience when pressed down. The travel distance of 3.6 mm signifies the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance a user will feel when pressing a key. Therefore, whether one chooses the Kailh Box Navy or the Kailh Plum, they can expect a consistent and satisfying travel distance during typing or gaming activities.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is best known for its heavy typing experience and vintage buckling keyboard sound signature. When typing on the Box Navy switch, you can expect a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience that resembles stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The switch's sharp and invigorating tactile bump provides a strong feedback intensity, which can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Additionally, the Box Navy switch is known for its stiffness, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches.
On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a unique feel. Despite its heaviness, the Plum switch does not feature a large tactile bump, making it stand out among other tactile switches. The Plum switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a safe, middle-ground sound profile. This switch can be used by beginners and advanced users alike, whether at home or work. In terms of the feel, the Plum switch can be described as more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It has a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Box Navy switch provides a heavy typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile. It delivers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feel. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a unique and approachable feel, with a mild and neutral sound profile. It provides a gentle typing experience and has a stepped tactile feedback. Although they offer distinct qualities, both switches can provide enjoyable and immersive typing experiences based on your preference for heaviness and tactility.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience with a clicky switch and enjoy the sound signature and tactility reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are the perfect fit for you. With a bottom out force of 90 grams, these switches offer a sharp and invigorating feel, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The sound profile of the Box Navy switches is resonant and crunchy, providing an immersive auditory experience akin to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch that offers a unique typing experience, the Kailh Plum switches are an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches feel quite hefty but feature a more moderate tactile bump compared to other tactile switches. The sound profile of the Plum switches is neutral, making them suitable for various purposes and environments. They provide a gentle and approachable typing experience, with a mild feel and a stepped sensation that allows for some pre-travel and/or post-travel feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy and the Kailh Plum switches depends on your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and level of tactility. If you crave a heavy and clicky typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound, the Box Navy switches are your best bet. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and a more gentle feel, the Plum switches are a great option. Consider these factors and choose the switch that aligns with your personal typing preferences.
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