Kailh Box Navy vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron Type A offer distinct experiences for users. The Box Navy is perfect for those who crave a heavy typing experience and enjoy the satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A provides a smoother and quieter linear typing experience, making it a great choice for those looking for a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and Gateron Type A switches both feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nature of nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. However, the Box Navy stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Type A's nylon top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency enhances the overall aesthetic.
In terms of construction, the use of nylon for both the top and bottom housing in the Type A switch provides a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The material's softness allows for sound absorption, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile throughout keystrokes. On the other hand, the Box Navy's combination of a polycarbonate top housing with a nylon bottom housing splits the qualities of each material between the top and bottom of the switch. As a result, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, creating a dynamic typing experience.
While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the key point of differentiation lies in the top housing material. The use of polycarbonate in the Kailh Box Navy's top housing produces a unique sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and more resonant compared to the Gateron Type A's nylon top housing. This difference in materials gives the Box Navy a distinct sound quality that may be preferred by those looking for a crisper typing experience. However, for users who appreciate a deeper and fuller sound profile throughout their typing experience, the Gateron Type A's consistent use of nylon in both top and bottom housings may offer a more cohesive and balanced sound.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch to the Gateron Type A linear switch, we see that the Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, while the Type A has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Box Navy provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Type A offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences in terms of force required for keystrokes. Overall, individuals looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Gateron Type A switch, while those seeking a more substantial feel may opt for the Kailh Box Navy switch.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is clear that the Box Navy has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Type A has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Box Navy, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may find the 4 mm travel distance of the Type A more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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 typing experience, with a higher-pitched and sharp sound profile akin to vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound, leaning towards the deeper end of the sound spectrum. The Box Navy will produce a more immersive auditory experience, while the Type A provides a more moderate and less pronounced sound signature.
Moving on to feel, the Box Navy switch is known for its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, offering a high feedback intensity and a strong tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. In contrast, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A switch is unknown. It is likely that the Type A switch, being a linear switch, will provide a smoother and consistent keystroke without the tactile feedback found in the Box Navy.
Overall, if you are looking for a heavy and tactile typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a more moderate and linear feel with a neutral and subdued sound, the Gateron Type A switch may suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a clicky switch that has a high feedback intensity and a higher-pitched sound profile, then the Kailh Box Navy switches would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a more subdued sound and a neutral feel that can be suitable for most purposes, then the Gateron Type A linear switches would be a better choice for you. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider what matters most to you when selecting your ideal mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
