Kailh Box Navy vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that would enhance your typing experience, the Kailh Box Navy and SP-Star Polaris Gray are two excellent options to consider. The Box Navy switches are ideal for those who crave a heavy, tactile typing experience and enjoy the satisfying clicky sound that accompanies each keystroke. These switches pay homage to the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s, with their distinct heftiness and nostalgic sound signature. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches offer a bouncy typing experience and boast a clean and clacky sound profile. If you prefer a smoother, more polished feel while typing, the Polaris Gray switches may be the perfect fit for you. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the SP-Star Polaris Gray both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Both switches also have translucent top housings, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities, it's important to note that the specific design and construction of the top housings might differ slightly between the two switches, leading to subtle variations in sound and feel.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Box Navy and the Polaris Gray differ significantly. The Box Navy utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with the characteristics of the top housing. This means that the Polaris Gray's bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, consistent with the overall sound profile of the switch.
When comparing the two switches, it's important to consider how the different housing materials affect the overall typing experience. The Box Navy's nylon bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will predominantly influence the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing will contribute to the overall sound profile when typing, aligning it more closely with the top housing. These distinctions make each switch unique and suitable for different preferences, with the Box Navy offering a potentially deeper and fuller sound during key presses and the Polaris Gray providing a consistent sharp and crisp sound throughout.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are notable differences. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams, which is the force required to trigger a keystroke, and a bottom out force of 90 grams, indicating a heavy and substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly, but its bottom out force of 67 grams suggests a medium-heavy typing experience.
Weight is an important factor to consider when selecting a switch, as it affects typing comfort and duration. Some users prefer lighter switches that allow for longer typing sessions, making them suitable for work environments or extended gaming sessions. However, others prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, in which case heavier switches are preferred.
In this case, the Box Navy stands out as the heavier option, with a significant bottom out force of 90 grams. This makes it suitable for individuals who appreciate a solid and pronounced keystroke. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray, while not specifying its actuation force, offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a slightly lighter feel compared to the Box Navy.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches depends on individual preference. Those who enjoy the satisfaction of a heavier, more demanding keystroke may lean towards the Box Navy, while individuals seeking a slightly lighter typing experience may find the Polaris Gray more suitable.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Polaris Gray has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Navy. The Polaris Gray falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, with 4 mm being the standard. On the other hand, the Box Navy offers a slightly shorter travel distance. Gamers, in particular, may be drawn to the Box Navy switch as it provides a faster response time with its shorter travel distance. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Polaris Gray to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 switches offer a resonant and crunchy typing experience. The sound profile of these switches is clean, sharp, and reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. Typing on a Box Navy switch provides an immersive auditory experience with a higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches have a low-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating a clean and clacky sound. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switches are described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches provide distinct and enjoyable sound experiences, but in different ways.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switches offer a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience. The strong and crisp tactile bump of these switches can be felt distinctly with each keypress, offering high feedback intensity. These switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, providing a sturdy and responsive typing feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer a mild and polished typing experience. The typing feel of these switches is gentle and approachable to most, as they stand in a safe middle-ground zone. The Polaris Gray switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, for those seeking a heavy typing experience with a clicky sound and strong tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy switches are an excellent choice. These switches offer a resonant and crunchy sound profile, along with sharp and invigorating tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched sound and a gentle typing feel, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches are a great option. These switches provide a clean, clacky sound and a mild, polished typing feel. Both switches offer unique qualities and can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preferences. With the available information, it is possible to achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with these switches. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, as they can also contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience with a nostalgic touch and enjoy the clicky sound of a keyboard, the Kailh Box Navy switches are the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 90 grams and a sound profile that is resonant and crunchy, these switches hark back to the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches are a great fit. With a lower bottom out force of 67 grams and a sound profile that is low-pitched, neutral, and thocky, these switches offer a more moderate and approachable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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