Kailh Box Navy vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron Smoothie stand out for their unique characteristics. The Box Navy is a clicky switch that provides a heavy typing experience with a distinct sound signature and tactile feedback reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Smoothie is a linear switch made entirely of POM, offering a thocky sound, smooth action, and lightweight touch at an affordable price point. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; however, let's dive deeper into the specifics to help you make an informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Smoothie, it is evident that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Box Navy features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Smoothie utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Box Navy incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. Similarly, the Smoothie also utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a unique sound experience that is influenced by their respective bottom housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Smoothie ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Box Navy offers a sharper and clearer sound experience with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, while the Smoothie provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top and bottom housings. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that caters to a variety of sound preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer contrasting experiences. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a more substantial typing sensation. On the other hand, the Smoothie offers a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. The bottom out force of the Smoothie is unknown, but it is likely to be lighter than the Box Navy. Those who prefer a more robust typing experience may opt for the Box Navy, while those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Smoothie.Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force required for keypresses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, both switches have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on either key, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of distance, there is no difference between the two switches. Therefore, whether you choose the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, providing a sharp and immersive auditory experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie offers a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound that is rich, mellow, and satisfying. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Box Navy delivering a higher-pitched and crisp sound, while the Smoothie offers a deep and smooth thocky tone.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is characterized by a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile bump that provides a high feedback intensity, making each keypress feel distinct and satisfying. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience that is smooth, fluid, and effortless. Both switches provide unique tactile sensations that cater to varying preferences, with the Box Navy offering a more intense and crisp tactile bump, while the Smoothie delivers a smooth and uniform typing sensation.
Overall, if you prefer a heavy typing experience with a sharp and crunchy sound profile, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a smoother, thocky sound with a buttery and creamy typing feel, the Gateron Smoothie switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, offering a tailored typing experience based on individual tastes.
Conclusion
In closing, if you value a heavy typing experience with a clicky sound and strong tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight touch with a thocky, smooth sound and a buttery typing feel, the Gateron Smoothie linear switches might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing style and what characteristics you prioritize in a keyboard switch. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider your typing preferences and needs when making your selection.
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