Kailh Box Navy vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile 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 and resonates with the nostalgic sound and feel of vintage buckling keyboards, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are an ideal choice. With their sharp, invigorating click and crunchy tactile feedback, these switches deliver a satisfyingly tactile typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent working environment without compromising on the tactile feedback, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches offer the perfect solution. These switches strike a delicate balance, providing a medium level of tactility while effectively minimizing switch sound. Crafted with precision and featuring ingenious stem railings with small cutouts, they ensure a crisp bottom-out and responsive return, all while maintaining an impressively silent profile. Unlike conventional silent switches, the WS Silent Tactile switches omit silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience free from the typical padded feel found in most silent switches. However, let's explore these switches further to help you make the most informed decision regarding 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 housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profile. The Box Navy utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing.
Similarly, the bottom housings of both switches also differ in material. The Box Navy has a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's ability to absorb sound is why switches with nylon housings create a duller and rounder sound. Likewise, the WS Silent Tactile also features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile for the same reasons.
In terms of functionality, the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the Box Navy switch, the impact and resulting sound will be influenced by its nylon bottom housing. Conversely, the top housing of the switch will have a stronger impact on the sound when releasing a key. Similarly, the WS Silent Tactile's top and bottom housings play a role in the sound and feel of the switch. By considering these differences in housing materials, users can tailor their choice of switch based on the desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, we can observe some interesting differences. The actuation force of the Box Navy is 60 grams, while the WS Silent Tactile's actuation force is unavailable. However, the bottom out force of the Box Navy is 90 grams, which is notably heavier than the WS Silent Tactile's 63.5 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile may be more suitable as its actuation force is unknown and its bottom out force is lighter compared to the Box Navy. This lighter feel allows for extended typing or gaming sessions without causing excessive fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Box Navy provide a more substantial push feel, appealing to users who desire a stronger typing experience.
It's worth noting that if the actuation force of the WS Silent Tactile happens to be similar to the Box Navy or around 60 grams, then both switches would offer a similar level of actuation force. However, even in that case, the Box Navy would still have a significantly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, we can see that the Box Navy has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. If you prioritize quick responsiveness, the WS Silent Tactile may be the better option for you. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances too abrupt and may prefer a greater sense of depth in their keystrokes. In this case, the Box Navy with its slightly longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and the tactile experience you seek.
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 Tactile 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
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is renowned for its resonant and crunchy sound profile. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound that is clean and sharp, resembling the nostalgic click of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offers a muted and neutral sound. These switches prioritize noise reduction and deliver a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches. Their unique design, which avoids the use of silicone dampeners, ensures a typing experience that maintains tranquility while providing a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Box Navy providing a more resonant and crunchy experience, while the WS Silent Tactile offers a muted and tranquil typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch provides users with a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience. Its strong and crisp tactile bump is prominent and can be felt distinctly with each keypress. These switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, providing a more demanding typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers an accented, invigorating, and mild tactile experience. These switches strike a balance between tactility and subtlety, providing a medium level of feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Users can expect a moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive typing sensation without being too demanding. Both switches offer their unique tactile characteristics, with the Box Navy providing a stronger and stiffer feel, while the WS Silent Tactile offers a more balanced and gentle typing experience.
In summary, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is ideal for those seeking a heavy and nostalgic typing experience. It offers a resonant and crunchy sound profile, along with a sharp and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch presents a superb choice for those looking to enhance their office or work environment. It offers a muted and tranquil sound, along with an accented and invigorating feel. While the two switches have distinct characteristics, they both deliver satisfying typing experiences with their own unique qualities. Whether you prefer a clicky switch with a nostalgic sound or a silent tactile switch with a balanced feel, both options cater to different preferences. So, depending on your personal preferences and requirements, you can select either switch knowing that you will achieve a similar level of satisfaction in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience with a clicky switch and enjoy the sound signature and tactility reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you need a switch that strikes a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches are an excellent choice for your office or work environment. The WS Silent Tactile switches deliver a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return while maintaining an impressively silent profile. The Box Navy switches offer a resonant and crunchy sound profile, while the WS Silent Tactile switches have a neutral and muted sound. In terms of feel, the Box Navy switches offer a sharp, invigorating, and stiff typing experience, while the WS Silent Tactile switches provide an accented, invigorating, and mild feel. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize heavy typing and a clicky sound or a balanced tactile experience and noise reduction.
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