Kailh Box Navy vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that truly stands out, look no further than the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron Quinn switches. The Box Navy switches are the epitome of a heavy typing experience, with a satisfyingly sharp and crunchy sound signature that harkens back to the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, the Quinn switches offer a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. Each keystroke produces a rich and immersive sound, adding a touch of character to the typing experience. Choose the Box Navy if you value a heavy and clicky switch, while the Quinn is perfect for those who prefer a tactile switch with a clean and crisp bump. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
59g
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
3.40 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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Quinn have different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Box Navy uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This translucent material is especially useful for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Quinn utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a similar deep and full sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound.
Although the Box Navy and the Quinn have contrasting top housing materials, they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches in different ways. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy enhances the sound when a key is released, providing a clearer and resonant tone. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Quinn creates a deeper and fuller sound when a key is pressed down. This difference in material results in distinct sound experiences depending on how the keys are used. However, the bottom housing of both switches is made of nylon, leading to a shared characteristic of eliciting a deep and full sound profile. Whether you are pressing down a key or letting go, the nylon bottom housing's impact on sound and feel remains consistent.
In summary, while the top housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Quinn differ, their shared nylon bottom housings result in a similar sound experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Quinn produces a deeper and fuller tone. However, regardless of the top housing material, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deep and full sound profile. Whether you choose the Box Navy or the Quinn, you can expect to enjoy a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams, compared to the Quinn's 59 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Box Navy is significantly heavier at 90 grams, while the Quinn has a lower bottom out force of 67 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Quinn switch would be more suitable as it has a slightly lighter actuation force. This can be beneficial for individuals who need to type for extended periods of time, such as in a work setting or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial and pronounced keystroke, the heavier actuation force of the Box Navy switch provides a stronger push feel. This can result in a more tactile and satisfying typing experience.
It is worth noting that both switches offer a distinct clicky feel due to their design. While the specific force values may differ, individuals seeking a clicky switch will likely achieve similar results in terms of the audible and tactile feedback provided by both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Box Navy and the Quinn switches will depend on personal preference for weight and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Quinn with its 3.4 mm travel distance may be a better choice for you. However, if you prefer a deeper key press, the Box Navy with its slightly longer 3.6 mm travel distance could be the preferable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific feel you are looking for in your keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch provides a resonant and crunchy experience. When typing on this switch, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile that immerses you in an auditory experience. The sound is clean, sharp, and resembles the satisfying crunch of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a bassy and clacky sound. With each key press, you will experience a deep and rich sound, reminiscent of bass tones. The sound is crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Quinn switch has a low-pitched profile, featuring a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Overall, both switches offer unique and enjoyable sound profiles, providing different auditory experiences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is known for its sharp, invigorating, and stiff feel. It offers a high feedback intensity with a strong and distinct tactile bump felt with every key press. The switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches, providing a satisfying and firm typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a snappy, polished, bouncy, and accented feel. It has a super responsive nature, offering a lively and spring-like feedback sensation. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and allowing for smooth key travel. It provides a medium amount of tactility that is prominent yet balanced. Overall, both switches offer engaging and tactile typing experiences with different levels of feedback and force required.
Considering all the available information, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy provides a vintage and crunchy sound profile, while the Quinn offers a deep and clacky sound. As for feel, the Box Navy has a sharp and stiff tactile experience, while the Quinn provides a snappy and polished feel. These differences make each switch suitable for different preferences and typing styles. If you are seeking a heavy, vintage typing experience with a crunchy sound, the Box Navy is a perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisp, deep sound profile with a snappy and polished feel, the Quinn switch would be a great choice. It's important to note that the sound of the switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, providing a touch of character and immersion to your typing journey.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and love the sound signature and tactility of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. Their heftiness and sound signature hark back to the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, then the Gateron Quinn switches are ideal. With each keystroke, users are greeted with a rich and immersive sound that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. In terms of sound, the Box Navy offers a resonant and crunchy experience, while the Quinn delivers a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound. When it comes to feel, the Box Navy provides a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience, while the Quinn offers a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your preference for typing experience, sound, and feel.
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