Kailh Box Navy vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Blue mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider what each switch has to offer. The Box Navy is perfect for those who crave a heavy typing experience and enjoy the loud sound and satisfying tactile feedback of clicky switches. Reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, the Box Navy is categorized as 'Sharp', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy', and 'Stiff'. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch doesn't have any standout features but still provides a similar clicky typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Blue switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches enhances the overall typing experience and aesthetic appeal.
In contrast, the Box Navy and the Outemu Blue switches differ in their bottom housings, with the Box Navy featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Outemu Blue has a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Outemu Blue may provide a different typing experience compared to the Box Navy, with potentially less sound absorption and a crisper, clearer sound profile.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Blue switches affects the overall sound and feel of each switch. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials impact the typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite some differences in housing materials, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Box Navy is the heavier of the two. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Both switches offer a satisfying clicky sound when typing, but the Box Navy will require a bit more force to register a keystroke and reach the bottom. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Blue clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Navy provides a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers wanting faster reactions. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Outemu Blue may suit those who prefer a more substantial key press with a deeper feeling. Both switches offer a satisfying clicky sound, but the Box Navy offers a slightly snappier feel due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and speed of response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50, whereas the Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10.
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 offers a resonant and crunchy experience. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. The crisp and crunchy sound adds to the overall tactile feedback, creating an immersive auditory experience. In contrast, there is no specific information available about the sound of the Outemu Blue clicky switch, but it is safe to assume that it would also provide a satisfying clicky sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is known for its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback. The strong and crisp tactile bump offers a high feedback intensity, making each keypress feel distinct and responsive. With a moderate to firm actuation force, these switches provide a snappy and reactive typing experience. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch. However, based on the qualities of a typical clicky switch, it can be assumed that it would also offer a satisfying tactile feedback similar to the Box Navy.
Overall, both the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch provide a satisfying typing experience with their clicky sound and tactile feedback. If you prefer a heavy typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound signature, the Box Navy switches would be an excellent choice. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option without compromising on the clicky feel, the Outemu Blue switches would also be a good option. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a high level of tactility and enjoy a clicky sound profile reminiscent of vintage keyboards, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience and are not concerned with a specific bottom out force, the Outemu Blue switches may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of weight, sound, and tactile feedback. Consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Blue switches to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard.
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