Kailh Box Navy vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a pronounced sound and tactile feedback, the Box Navy switches, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards, are the ideal choice. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switches provide a snappy response and a smooth downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overwhelming. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and Sarokeys Purple Sakura have similar polycarbonate top housings, both offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. Both switches provide a consistent experience in terms of sound and feel, thanks to the use of polycarbonate in their top housings.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the Box Navy and Purple Sakura both utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite having different top housings, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Kailh Box Navy and Sarokeys Purple Sakura contributes to a well-rounded and satisfying typing experience. The differences in material properties between the top and bottom housings provide a balanced sound profile with a mix of sharpness and depth. Whether you prefer a stiffer plastic for a crisper sound or a softer plastic for a fuller sound, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is clear that the Box Navy is the heavier of the two. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, while the Purple Sakura has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The actuation force of the Box Navy is higher than that of the Purple Sakura, making it require more pressure to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Box Navy is also higher, indicating that it is more difficult to press all the way down on this switch compared to the Purple Sakura. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force and bottom out force of the Purple Sakura for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the heavier feel of the Box Navy for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance compared to the Box Navy. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance may lean towards the Purple Sakura for faster response times, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Box Navy. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 typing experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling spring keyboards. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch provides a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments and preferences. The sound produced by each switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is sharp, invigorating, and stiff, providing a strong tactile bump and a firm typing experience. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery, mild, and snappy feel, with a smooth and gentle keystroke that is responsive and uniform. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences tailored to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, if you prefer a heavy and clicky typing experience with a more pronounced and sharp tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more balanced and smooth typing sensation with a moderate sound profile, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a loud clicky sound, the Box Navy switches are a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force with a snappy and buttery tactile feel, the Purple Sakura switches would be more suited to your liking. Consider the type of noise level and feedback you prefer when typing, as well as the level of actuation force that feels most comfortable to you. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to choose based on what feels best for your typing needs.
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