An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
If you are in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, there are two options that stand out: the Kailh Box Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Onion. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them desirable, but ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you crave a heavy typing experience and enjoy the satisfying clicky sound that reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards, then the Box Navy switches are perfect for you. Its sharp, resonant, and invigorating feel combined with a crunchy and stiff texture deliver a nostalgic typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches offer a different, yet equally appealing, experience. With a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, these switches provide a smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. They have a crisp, responsive feel and a neutral sound profile, creating a buttery and polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
60g
N/A
90g
63.5g
1.80 mm
2.00 mm
3.60 mm
4.00 mm
No
Yes
Box
Partial box
POM
POM
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate
Nylon
Nylon
Plate (3-pin)
PCB (5-pin)
Kailh Box spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Onion have several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency is particularly useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, whether you choose the Box Navy or the WS Onion, you can expect similar sound qualities and visual appeal due to the shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing.
However, there are distinct differences in the bottom housing materials of these switches. The Box Navy features a nylon bottom housing, while the WS Onion also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different auditory experience compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. When using the Box Navy, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will primarily come from the nylon bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the polycarbonate top housing. The WS Onion will deliver a similar experience, with the nylon bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound upon key release.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy and Wuque Studio WS Onion share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, contributing to a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. However, the switches differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Box Navy featuring a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, while the WS Onion also utilizes nylon for a similar sound profile. Understanding the separate roles played by each housing material allows users to choose a switch that suits their desired sound experience, whether they prioritize the bottom-out or key release sound.
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Box Navy switch has an actuation force of 60 grams, which means it requires a relatively moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Onion switch is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare.
In terms of bottom out force, the Box Navy switch is heavier, requiring 90 grams of force to fully press down. This can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the WS Onion switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which could be considered medium-heavy.
Weight becomes an important aspect to consider when choosing between these switches. Some users may prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for those who prioritize a more substantial typing experience, opting for switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
While it is difficult to directly compare the actuation force of the WS Onion switch without the specific information, it can be inferred that the Box Navy switch is heavier overall. However, for individuals seeking similar results, selecting the WS Onion switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force may provide a comparable typing experience.
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it is clear that the Box Navy has a shorter travel distance of 3.6mm, while the WS Onion has a slightly longer travel distance of 4mm. The Box Navy falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it more ideal for gamers who desire faster response times. On the other hand, the WS Onion provides a slightly deeper travel distance, which may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down keys. In terms of overall travel distances, the WS Onion is the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance offering quicker responses and the longer travel distance providing a more satisfying depth.
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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.
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is best known for its heavy typing experience and vintage buckling keyboard sound signature. When typing on a Box Navy switch, users can expect a crisp and sharp sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The tactile feedback is strong and distinct, providing an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. These switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, making them ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying and hefty typing experience.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offers a different subjective experience. These switches provide a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. They have a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes and preferences. The WS Onion switches offer a uniform and effortless typing sensation, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing contribute to the polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Box Navy excels in providing a heavy typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile, accompanied by a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Onion offers a buttery smooth keystroke feel with a neutral sound profile, thanks to its polished and refined finish. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. It is important to consider factors like choice of keyboard and keycaps, as they can also influence the sound and feel of the switch.
To sum up, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and love the sound signature and tactility of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. With a bottom out force of 90 grams, these switches offer a heftiness that is reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. The Box Navy switches produce a resonant and crunchy sound profile, which creates an immersive auditory experience akin to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Moreover, the sharp and invigorating tactile feedback of the Box Navy switches provides a prominent and distinct typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth keystroke feel, then the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches are an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches offer a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner, advanced typist, or using them at home or work. The WS Onion switches feature a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, providing a polished and refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. The result is a seamless and effortless typing sensation that is deeply satisfying.
Ultimately, your preference between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch will depend on whether you prioritize a heavy typing experience with resonant sound and sharp tactile feedback, or a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth keystroke feel and neutral sound profile. Consider your typing preferences and the desired typing experience when making your decision.