Kailh Box Navy vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a heavy typing experience and embraces the nostalgic sound signature and tactility of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches would be a perfect fit for you. These switches offer a strong and resonant typing experience that brings back memories of the vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. With characteristics such as sharpness, resonance, invigoration, crunchiness, and stiffness, the Box Navy switches deliver a unique and satisfying feel while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier weight and refreshingly sharp clickiness, the Kailh Sage switches are worth considering. The Sages also provide that invigorating sharpness and crunchiness that you may be looking for when typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect 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 Kailh Box Navy and the Kailh Sage feature similar housing materials in their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate due to its stiffness, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enhance their keyboard's aesthetic with lighting effects. In terms of sound, users can expect a clear and resonant sound when typing on either the Box Navy or the Sage.
When it comes to the bottom housings of the switches, the Box Navy and Sage both employ a nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This absorption leads to a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate top housings. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to the overall typing experience.
It is important to note that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will affect different aspects of the switch's performance. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding the distribution of housing materials in a switch allows users to customize and optimize their typing experience according to their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Box Navy has a relatively heavy actuation force of 60 grams, meaning it requires a fair amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Sage is unknown, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of lightness or heaviness. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Box Navy again takes the heavier side with 90 grams. This indicates that it provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Conversely, the Sage offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, which suggests a slightly lighter typing experience. Therefore, those seeking a lighter switch that allows for longer typing sessions may find the Sage more suitable, while individuals craving a heavier switch may prefer the Box Navy.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Therefore, when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance. This means that in terms of the physical sensation when using the switches, you can expect comparable results from both the Kailh Box Navy and the Kailh Sage switches.
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 Sage 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 switches are known for their heavy typing experience and vintage sound signature reminiscent of buckling keyboards from the 80s. The sound produced by the Box Navy switches can be described as resonant, with a higher-pitched profile and a clean, sharp sound. It provides an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the Box Navy switches are described as crunchy, sounding like stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switches offer a distinct clicky typing experience with a refreshingly sharp clickiness. Its sound profile is also described as crunchy, giving a similar sound to the Box Navy switches.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Box Navy and Sage switches offer pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. The Box Navy switches are known for their sharp tactile feedback, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is easily felt with each keypress. They provide an invigorating typing sensation. The Sage switches also offer an invigorating switch experience, with moderate to firm actuation force and a reactive feel. They also have a sharp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress, providing a similar typing sensation to the Box Navy switches.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy and Sage switches have comparable sound profiles, with both being described as crunchy. This means that users can expect a similar sound experience from both switches. In terms of feel, both switches offer an invigorating typing sensation with sharp tactile feedback. While the Box Navy switches are known for their heftiness and the vintage buckling keyboard feel, the Sage switches provide a refreshingly sharp clickiness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing experience. If you are seeking a heavy typing experience and love the sound signature and tactility of a clicky switch, then the 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 typing experience with a refreshing sharp clickiness, the Sage switches offer a distinct clicky typing experience. Both switches produce a crunchy sound akin to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. In terms of feel, the Box Navy switches are known for their sharp tactile feedback and invigorating typing sensation, while the Sage switches also provide pronounced feedback and a strong crisp tactile bump. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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