Kailh Box Navy vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a unique and robust typing experience, the Kailh Box Navy and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer distinct options to suit your preferences. The Box Navy switches are perfect for those who appreciate a heavier typing feel and enjoy the satisfying clicky sound that harkens back to the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. These switches are categorized as sharp, resonant, invigorating, crunchy, and stiff. On the other hand, if you value a quieter work environment but still desire exceptional responsiveness, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque are an ideal choice. These linear switches employ innovative stem railings with discreet cutouts, effectively reducing switch noise without the need for silicone dampeners. They are categorized as neutral, mild, muted, and subdued. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make a more 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches differ in terms of the materials used for their top housing. The Box Navy utilizes polycarbonate, a stiff plastic that results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its translucent nature makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. While the Box Navy offers a clear and resonant sound, the WS Silent Linear creates a duller and rounder sound.
In regard to the bottom housing, both the Box Navy and the WS Silent Linear employ nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience when typing. As nylon is a relatively softer plastic, it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Consequently, the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches are affected by the characteristics of their nylon bottom housing.
When considering the overall sound and feel of these switches, it is important to recognize the influence of the top and bottom housings. Pressing down on the switches allows one to feel the qualities of the bottom housing, which has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound is influenced to a greater extent by the top housing. While the Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper sound when keys are released, the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound during the same action. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for the desired sound and feel experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that there are notable differences. The Box Navy has a relatively heavy actuation force of 60 grams, meaning a significant amount of pressure is needed to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the specific actuation force for the WS Silent Linear switch is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Box Navy requires even more force at 90 grams, resulting in a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch has a lower bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly lighter compared to the Box Navy.
Considering the weight of the switches, it is important to highlight that individuals have varied preferences. Some users may prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer durations without experiencing fatigue. This aspect makes them suitable for keyboards used in work environments or during extended gaming sessions. Conversely, those seeking a more robust and forceful typing experience may opt for options with heavier actuation and bottom out forces, such as the Box Navy.
While the actuation force of the WS Silent Linear switch is unknown, it is likely to fall within a comparable range to the Kailh Box Navy, allowing for a similar typing experience in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, it should be noted that the WS Silent Linear is noticeably lighter than the Box Navy in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for the amount of pressure and typing experience one desires.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch have distinct differences in their travel distances. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the keyboard market. Gamers, in particular, tend to gravitate towards switches with shorter travel distances as they offer faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Silent Linear would be a suitable choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel, the Box Navy with its slightly longer travel distance may be preferred. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of key 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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear comes in at $4.20.
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 is all about creating an immersive auditory experience. With its resonant sound profile, you can expect a higher-pitched sound that is clean and sharp. It's like typing on a keyboard that echoes the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch aims for tranquility and precision. It produces a muted and subdued sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. While not completely silent, it offers a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular or clacky switches. If you prefer a clicky and resonant sound, the Box Navy is the way to go. If you lean towards a more tranquil and muted typing experience, the WS Silent Linear is your best choice.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a sharp and invigorating tactile experience. Its tactile bump is strong, crisp, and prominent, providing high feedback intensity with each keypress. It's a switch that demands your attention and offers a snappy and reactive feel. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch provides a more mild and gentle typing experience. It stands in a safe, middle-ground zone with qualities that are approachable to most typists. While the specific feel of the WS Silent Linear switch is not explicitly mentioned, it can be inferred that it offers a smooth and consistent linear feel due to its silent design. If you crave a tactile and invigorating typing sensation, the Box Navy is the perfect fit. If you prefer a milder and more gentle feel, the WS Silent Linear switch is the way to go.
Taking into account the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Box Navy delivers a resonant and crunchy sound profile with a sharp and invigorating tactile feel, reminiscent of vintage keyboards. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear provides a muted and subdued sound, coupled with a mild and gentle typing experience. The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on your preference for sound and feel. If you desire a clicky and immersive typing experience, the Box Navy is the ideal option. If you prioritize tranquility, precision, and a more gentle typing experience, the WS Silent Linear switch is the perfect fit. Remember that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout, housing, and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience with a clicky switch and enjoy the sound signature and tactility reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. Their 90 gram bottom out force provides a satisfyingly hefty feel, and their resonant and crunchy sound profile creates an immersive auditory experience. However, if you prefer a more tranquil and precise typing experience for your office or work environment, then the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches are the ideal choice. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these linear switches offer unparalleled responsiveness and a softer, quieter sound. Their ingeniously designed stem railings and lack of silicone dampeners create a distinct typing experience that is both tranquil and precise. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to your desired typing experience and sound preference.
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