Kailh Box Navy vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Brown 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 with a satisfying clicky sound, the Box Navy switches may be the perfect fit for you. Reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s, these switches offer a heftiness and sound signature that will transport you back in time. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced approach that offers both responsiveness and comfort, the WS Brown switches from Wuque Studio are worth considering. With a medium-light actuation force, these switches strike a harmonious balance that ensures fatigue-free typing during those long sessions. Additionally, the WS Brown switches offer a delightful auditory experience thanks to its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision regarding the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Brown differ in their housing materials, with the former featuring a polycarbonate top housing, while the latter utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes it ideal for users who plan to use RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the lighting effects. Conversely, the nylon top housing of the WS Brown produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Therefore, while the Box Navy focuses on clarity and resonance, the WS Brown prioritizes a rounder and duller sound.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Box Navy and the WS Brown utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches benefit from the same material for their bottom housings, as they provide similar sound characteristics. When typing on either switch, users can expect a satisfying bottom-out sound and feel due to the impact of the nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are distributed differently between the top and bottom of the switches. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when key releases. This means that the choice between the Kailh Box Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Brown will ultimately depend on the desired sound profile, stiffness preference, and lighting preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a relatively heavy actuation force of 60 grams, which means it requires a substantial amount of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force for the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch is unknown, making it difficult to make a direct comparison.
In terms of bottom out force, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a force of 90 grams, indicating that it requires even more pressure to press the key all the way down. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is relatively lighter and falls into the medium-light category.
Weight is an important aspect to consider when choosing a switch, as it affects the overall typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for switches with lower actuation and bottom out forces, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This is particularly beneficial for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions.
Conversely, some individuals prefer a stronger push feel, as it provides a more substantial tactile experience while typing. For such individuals, switches with heavier forces like the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch might be a preferable choice.
It is worth noting that while the actuation force for the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch is unavailable, its relatively lighter bottom out force of 55 grams suggests that it may offer a more responsive typing experience compared to the heavier Kailh Box Navy clicky switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular in recent years. Gamers, in particular, prefer shorter travel distances as they can allow for faster response times. If responsiveness is a priority for you, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch would be the shorter option to consider. However, it's worth noting that some people find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt. For those who prefer a more satisfying depth to their keystrokes, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be the better choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50.
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 offers a resonant and immersive auditory experience. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. The sound is often described as reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch provides a sharp and invigorating tactile experience. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Additionally, they offer a stiff actuation force, requiring more pressure to actuate or bottom out compared to other switches. This creates an immersive typing sensation that enthusiasts appreciate. Unfortunately, the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch is unknown.
Based on the available information, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is recommended for those seeking a heavy typing experience with a vintage sound signature. These switches offer a sharp and invigorating tactile sensation, making each keystroke feel distinct and immersive. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch seems to strike a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, but the specific details about its sound and feel are unknown. If you enjoy the qualities described for the Kailh Box Navy switch, you may find similar results with the WS Brown switch. However, it's important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as keycaps and the keyboard itself when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and love the sound and feel of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are the perfect fit for you. With a bottom out force of 90 grams, these switches provide a hefty and satisfying typing experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. The resonant and crunchy sound profile adds to the immersive auditory experience that enthusiasts cherish. Additionally, the sharp and invigorating tactile feedback of the Box Navy switches further enhances the typing sensation, creating a truly immersive and engaging experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switches are an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches offer a medium-light actuation force that promotes fatigue-free typing during long sessions. The familiar and delightful auditory experience, thanks to the nylon housing and POM stem combination, adds to the overall satisfaction while typing.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you value a heavy and impactful typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound, the Box Navy switches are the way to go. However, if you seek a harmonious balance of responsiveness, comfort, and a familiar typing experience, the WS Brown switches are an excellent choice. Consider your preferences and needs carefully to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
