Kailh Box Navy vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Brown offer two distinct typing experiences. The Box Navy is a clicky switch that is favored by those who enjoy a heavy typing experience with a pronounced sound signature and tactile feedback reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown is a tactile switch that provides a quiet and smooth typing experience without the audible click. If you prefer a more subtle typing experience with tactile feedback, the Brown switches might be the better choice for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Brown switches, it is evident that they both feature polycarbonate top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The use of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a more distinctive typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Box Navy utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. While the top housing may have a more significant impact on the sound upon key release, the qualities of the bottom housing contribute to the overall typing experience, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Brown switches both offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches creates a distinct sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing in each switch adds depth and fullness to the typing experience. While the top housing may have a more noticeable impact on sound during key release, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches. Despite their differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience for users looking for a mix of sharpness, clarity, and depth in their sound profile.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Brown tactile switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 53 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Box Navy is even heavier at 90 grams, while the Outemu Brown is slightly lighter at 65 grams. This means that the Box Navy switch will provide a more substantial typing experience, requiring more force both to register a keystroke and to fully depress the key. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch offers a lighter actuation force for a slightly easier typing experience, but still provides a satisfying tactile feedback. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch both offer a satisfying typing experience, but they differ in their travel distances. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance of the Brown switch. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box Navy for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Brown switch. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, so choosing between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference.
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 Brown 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 is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of vintage buckling spring keyboards. The higher-pitched sound and clean sharpness provide an immersive typing experience that is satisfying for those who enjoy audibly tactile switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown, making it difficult to compare.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is described as sharp, invigorating, and stiff. The sharp tactile bump and high feedback intensity give each keypress a distinct and satisfying feel, making typing on these switches a tactile delight. The stiff actuation force required adds to the overall heaviness of the typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the Outemu Brown tactile switch, making it challenging to make a direct comparison.
In conclusion, for those looking for a heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound and distinct tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be the preferred choice. However, if the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Brown switch align with your preferences, you may still achieve a similar typing experience. It is essential to consider the overall typing experience, as well as personal sound and feel preferences, when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between Kailh Box Navy clicky switches and Outemu Brown tactile switches, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a distinct clicky sound and strong tactile feedback, then the Box Navy switches would be a great option for you. However, if you prefer a slightly lighter typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more subtle tactile feedback, then the Outemu Brown switches might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you're looking for before making a decision.
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