Kailh Box Navy vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Navy and the Jerrzi Violet mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately discern their distinct characteristics. The Box Navy is a clicky switch renowned for its heavy typing experience, nostalgic sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, and categorized as sharp, resonant, invigorating, crunchy, and stiff. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet is a tactile switch known for its gentle tactility, smooth actuation, pleasing poppy feel, and neutral sound signature, categorized as stepped and neutral. If you prefer a robust and audible typing experience, the Box Navy may be the ideal choice for you, while the Violet switch offers a more subtle and balanced typing experience. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and Jerrzi Violet switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This type of plastic is relatively stiffer, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this feature, the specific nuances of each switch's polycarbonate housing may still result in slightly different sound profiles.
In contrast, the Kailh Box Navy and Jerrzi Violet switches differ in their bottom housing material, with the Box Navy featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Violet using a similar nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing. The differences in bottom housing material may contribute to variations in the overall sound and feel of the switches when pressed down.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Kailh Box Navy and Jerrzi Violet switches respectively, provides a unique blend of properties that affect the sound and feel of typing. While both switches share similarities in their top housing material, the differing bottom housing material may result in subtle variations in the sound profile and typing experience. Understanding how each housing material impacts the overall performance of the switches can help users choose the option that best suits 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 Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it's clear that the Box Navy is the heavier option. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it a more suitable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Since the bottom out force of the Violet is unknown, it's difficult to directly compare the two in that aspect. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch both have travel distances that are relatively close in range. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Violet has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. While the 0.1 mm difference may not seem significant, it can affect the overall feel and experience of typing on the switches. In terms of comparison, the Box Navy offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Violet. This may appeal to individuals who prefer a snappier and more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which can offer a more deliberate and deep feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile and a clean, sharp sound reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, but the Box Navy will give a louder and more immersive auditory experience compared to the softer and more balanced sound of the Violet switch.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is sharp, invigorating, and stiff, providing a strong tactile bump with each key press. This results in a highly tactile and responsive typing experience. On the contrary, the Jerrzi Violet switch offers a stepped feel, with a more subtle tactile feedback compared to the intense tactility of the Box Navy switch. The Violet switch is smoother and gentler in comparison, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a softer typing experience.
Overall, if you are looking for a heavy, clicky switch with a loud and sharp sound profile along with intense tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be the way to go. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound with a smoother and gentler tactile feel, the Jerrzi Violet switch would better suit your preferences. Keep in mind that the choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, and testing them out in person on a keyboard is the best way to determine which switch is right for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a high-pitched and crisp sound profile, as well as a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, then the Box Navy switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more moderate typing experience with a balanced sound signature and a gentle, stepped tactile feedback, then the Violet switches would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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