Kailh Box Navy vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy switches are a great choice. Known for their weightiness and sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, these switches provide a tactile and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and lightning-fast typing experience without the clicky noise, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches may be more suited to your preferences. Featuring a short travel distance for quick actuation, these switches offer a thocky sound, unmatched smoothness, and a feather-light touch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
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 Silver, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles. The Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, depending on their preferences. While the Box Navy's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and deeper sound, the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing provides a similarly deep and muted sound.
Additionally, the material composition of the housings plays a significant role in the overall aesthetics of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy allows for RGB lighting to shine through, creating a visually appealing experience for users. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver may not offer the same level of translucency, but it still contributes to the unique sound profile of the switch. Both switches prioritize different aspects of the typing experience, with the Box Navy focusing on a crisp and resonant sound, while the Smoothie Silver aims for a more pleasing and muted sound.
While there are distinct differences in the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, the end result for users may be quite similar. Both switches offer deep and pleasing sound profiles, albeit with different tones and pitches. Whether users prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and more muted sound, they can find a switch that suits their preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches contribute to their overall typing experience, making them popular choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Box Navy is heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Box Navy requires 60 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, while the Smoothie Silver only needs 45 grams. Additionally, the Box Navy has a bottom out force of 90 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver is unknown. In terms of weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Smoothie Silver due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Box Navy would be more suitable for those who prefer a heavier typing feel. Both switches offer different typing experiences, catering to individuals with varying preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances than the traditional 4.0 mm, with the Smoothie Silver being slightly shorter than the Box Navy. Gamers may prefer the Smoothie Silver for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more tactile and deeper feel may opt for the Box Navy with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie Silver 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 Silver 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, offering a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch lacks a specific sound description but is known to provide a thocky sound, which is smooth and quiet. Depending on personal preference, the Box Navy will offer a more satisfying auditory feedback with each keypress due to its distinctive clicky sound, while the Smoothie Silver will provide a quieter and smoother typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is characterized by its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback. The strong and crisp tactile bump of the Box Navy switch provides a pronounced and firm actuation force, creating a satisfying typing sensation. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch lacks a specific feel description, but is known for its smoothness and feather-light touch, allowing for lightning-fast actuation with minimal resistance. Depending on personal preference, the Box Navy will offer a more tactile and firm typing experience, while the Smoothie Silver will provide a smoother and lighter touch for faster typing speeds.
Overall, if you prefer a heavy typing experience with a distinct clicky sound and strong tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience with lightning-fast actuation and minimal resistance, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch would be the better option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on the type of typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a clicky switch that provides a vintage feel and sound, the Kailh Box Navy switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and lightweight touch with lightning-fast actuation, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience, sound signature, and tactile feedback. Both switches have their unique features and benefits, so it's essential to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your selection.
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