Kailh Box Navy vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a heavy typing experience and encompasses 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 emulate the satisfying feel of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, offering a crisp and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches, known for their linear "speed" design, bring forth a unique typing feel reminiscent of the dynamic duo- Steph and Klay. With a shorter activation point and a long pole stem, these switches offer a smooth and snappy typing experience. Additionally, they produce a creamy sound signature that adds to the overall typing enjoyment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the Jwick Splash Brothers have similar housing materials. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. It also allows for the use of RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound and aesthetic experience when using either switch with RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box Navy and the Splash Brothers utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Both switches share these qualities, so users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall switch experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, although the housing materials may be similar between the Box Navy and the Splash Brothers, the specific sound and feel of the switches may still differ slightly depending on the distribution of these materials within the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is evident that they have distinct differences. The Box Navy requires an actuation force of 60 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the actuation force of the Splash Brothers remains unknown. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Box Navy is heavier with a requirement of 90 grams, while the Splash Brothers is lighter at 48 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Splash Brothers switch would be a suitable choice as its lower bottom out force allows for easier keystrokes. This is particularly advantageous for individuals who engage in prolonged typing or gaming sessions, as it reduces the strain on their fingers and promotes longer usage without fatigue. Alternatively, the Box Navy switch caters to those who seek a more substantial typing feel, as its heavier actuation and bottom out forces result in a more pronounced keystroke sensation. This can be preferable for those who desire a satisfying and tactile typing experience.
While the actuation force of the Splash Brothers switch is unavailable, it is important to note that a similar result to the Box Navy can still be achieved if the actuation force happens to be similar. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is evident that the Box Navy has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common and 3.0 mm being the shallowest. However, in recent times, there has been a preference for shorter travel distances among gamers who value faster response times. For those seeking a more responsive keystroke, opting for the switch with the shorter travel distance would be ideal. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress may find the longer travel distance of the Box Navy more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of keypress depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50, whereas the Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49.
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 offers a resonant and crunchy sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound with a clean and sharp resonance, reminiscent of vintage keyboards from the 80s. The sound is similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch provides a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound intensity that suits various purposes and users - whether you are a beginner or advanced, or whether you plan to use it at home or work. It is important to note that the actual sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch delivers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff typing experience. These switches are known for their intense tactile feedback with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Additionally, they require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, making them suitable for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a milder and snappier feel. They provide a more gentle typing experience with a subtle resistance, suitable for most users. Furthermore, the switches are super responsive and have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Additionally, they have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy delivers a resonant and crunchy sound with a sharp and invigorating feel, providing a heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers offer a neutral sound with a milder, snappier, and bouncy feel, suitable for users seeking a more gentle typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a fulfilling typing experience. If you prefer the heavy and tactile feel with a resonant sound, the Box Navy is the suitable choice. However, if you prefer a gentler feel with a more neutral sound, the Splash Brothers will provide similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience with a clicky switch that pays homage to the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s, then the Kailh Box Navy is the perfect fit for you. With a bottom out force of 90 grams, these switches offer a sharp and invigorating tactile feel, making every keypress distinctly noticeable. The sound profile of the Box Navy is resonant and crunchy, providing an immersive auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a creamy sound signature, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is ideal. With a bottom out force of 48 grams, these switches offer a mild and snappy typing experience, suitable for both beginners and advanced users. The shorter activation and long pole stem of the Splash Brothers switches contribute to their great typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch depends on your preference for heavy or light typing experiences, as well as the sound and feel characteristics that resonate with you the most.
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