Kailh Box Royal vs. HMX Deep Navy

Overview

When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and two popular options exemplify the contrast between tactile and linear experiences: the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Deep Navy. The Box Royal switches are designed for those who crave a commanding tactile response; their sharp, binary tactility delivers an assertive feedback that is both enjoyable and highly pronounced during typing. Coupled with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Box Royals appeal to users who seek an immersive, engaging experience. On the other hand, the HMX Deep Navy switches offer a smooth, linear action that is characterized by a rich sonic experience, thanks to their full nylon construction and the silky Ly stem. This makes them an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize fluid keystrokes and quieter operation. While both switches offer unique benefits—one for those who thrive on tactile feedback and the other for those who appreciate seamless key presses—they serve very different typing preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Deep Navy utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, offering a unified approach to sound and feel in their switch designs. Nylon is well-regarded in the mechanical switch community for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature. This characteristic allows it to absorb and dampen sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, which can result in a more muted and rounded acoustic experience when typing. Given that both switches employ nylon in their construction, users can expect a similar auditory experience whether typing on the Box Royal or the Deep Navy.

Furthermore, the shared nylon material in both the top and bottom housings means that the strategies for achieving a rich sound profile will resonate similarly across both switches. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the bottoming-out sound and tactile feel, the softer qualities of nylon contribute to a pleasant typing experience by dampening harsh sounds. In each switch, the top housing will moderate the sound produced when the key is released, effectively blending with the bottom housing’s impact to create a cohesive auditory experience. Both switches are designed to minimize any unpleasant sharp sounds, thus enhancing the overall enjoyment and satisfaction when engaged in extended typing sessions.

While there are no notable differences in the materials used in the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Deep Navy, this homogeneity allows for predictable consistency across their performance. Users can expect a seamlessly integrated typing experience that is characterized by the same tonal qualities and tactile feedback, attributed primarily to the nylon construction. Even though the switches may differ in terms of design aesthetics or actuation force, the fundamental sound profile and feel remain aligned due to their shared use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings, leading to comparable results when engaged in typing or gaming activities.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, a notable difference is evident in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Royal requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch that caters to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Deep Navy switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a significantly lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, appealing to those who favor a more effortless and swift keystroke. This difference means that the Box Royal is better suited for users who enjoy the tactile feedback of a stronger push, while the Deep Navy is ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its lighter touch. Overall, if lighter actuation and bottom out forces are desired, the Deep Navy is the clear choice.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch both have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect a comparable feel and responsiveness when pressing down on the keys of devices equipped with either switch. As a result, with both switches offering the same travel distance, individuals seeking a tactile or linear experience will notice similar performance characteristics in terms of key actuation and depth. In conclusion, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, as they share the same travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal switches stand out with a high-pitched sound profile that produces a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. This makes them ideal for users who prefer a brighter sound as opposed to the deeper, richer tones found in certain switches. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy switches offer a unique auditory experience characterized by their rich, sharp sound, attributed to their full nylon construction. While the Box Royals provide a lively acoustic response that is decidedly higher in pitch, the Deep Navies may present a slightly different auditory sensation, though the exact nature of their sound is less defined. Ultimately, both switches will deliver audible feedback, but their individual sound signatures cater to different preferences.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Royal switches offer a sharp, defined tactile bump that is prominent with each keypress, delivering a high feedback intensity that enthusiasts often describe as aggressive. This binary tactile response allows users to confidently register their keystrokes, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile sensation. On the other hand, the HMX Deep Navy switches are known for their silky smoothness, courtesy of the Ly stem, which emphasizes a seamless typing experience. Despite the deep navy’s linear nature, the exact tactile feedback they provide isn’t specified, but they are generally expected to focus more on a smooth keystroke rather than defined tactile bumps.

In conclusion, while both the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Deep Navy switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, their qualities cater to different user preferences. The Box Royals are ideal for those who revel in a sharp, high-pitched sound and an aggressive tactile feedback, while the Deep Navy switches provide a smooth, seamless feel coupled with a rich auditory profile. Depending on your priorities—whether that's sound, feel, or a combination thereof—you’ll find that each switch presents an enticing option for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch largely depends on your personal preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you favor a tactile typing experience with a strong, sharp bump at the actuation point, the Box Royal is the ideal choice. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams ensures that you have a satisfying level of resistance, which can enhance typing accuracy, especially when you enjoy knowing precisely when a key has actuated. However, if you prefer a smoother and lighter touch while typing, the Deep Navy with its light 45 grams bottom-out force is better suited for you. Its silky smooth keystrokes can provide a pleasurable experience, particularly useful for fast typists or gamers who appreciate seamless key presses. Additionally, if sound is a factor, and you prefer a high-pitched, crisp sound profile over a deeper tone, the Box Royal will meet your needs, while the Deep Navy delivers a full-bodied, rich auditory experience that some may find more satisfying. Ultimately, consider your typing style, whether you lean towards tactile feedback or a smooth experience, and the auditory characteristics you enjoy to make the best decision between these two distinct switches.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more