Kailh Box Navy vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Cream Blue offer distinct typing experiences. The Box Navy is ideal for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience and appreciate the audible click and tactile feedback that clicky switches provide. Its sound signature and heftiness are reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, making it a great choice for those looking for a nostalgic feel. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch doesn't have a specific standout feature, but still offers a clicky typing experience. While the Box Navy is categorized as sharp, resonant, invigorating, crunchy, and stiff, the Cream Blue does not have any specific categorizations. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Cream Blue, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for their bottom housing. Therefore, both the Box Navy and Cream Blue will share similar characteristics in terms of the sound produced when bottoming out keys.
On the other hand, the difference lies in the top housing material used in these switches. The Box Navy features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Cream Blue utilizes a nylon top housing, which also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the sound produced is duller and rounder compared to the sharper sound of polycarbonate. Therefore, the top housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of these switches.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the sound and feel of these switches, it becomes clear that the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will affect the sound produced when releasing a key. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Cream Blue provides a unique typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Box Navy is heavier in both aspects. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, making it a heavier switch overall. In contrast, the Cream Blue has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. The lighter actuation force of the Cream Blue may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, allowing for longer periods of use without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Box Navy provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight, with the Box Navy offering a heavier option and the Cream Blue providing a lighter alternative.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Navy falls into the category of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times, while the Cream Blue offers a more traditional and deeper keypress feel. Both switches provide tactile feedback and an audible click, but the slight difference in travel distance can result in a noticeable variation in typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Cream 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 typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile and clean, sharp sound. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is not available. Depending on personal preferences, the Box Navy switch may be preferred for its unique auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch provides a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominently felt with each keypress. The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch lacks available information on its tactile feel. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a noticeable feedback and higher actuation force, the Box Navy switch may be the better choice for you.
Overall, if you are looking for a heavy, vintage typing experience with a clicky sound and sharp tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be a suitable option. While information on the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is limited, based on the available descriptions, the Box Navy switch may provide a more unique and satisfying typing experience for those who appreciate a heavier and more tactile switch. Depending on your personal preferences, both switches may offer similar results in terms of a clicky typing experience, but the Box Navy switch stands out for its specific sound and feel qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavy typing experience with a high level of tactility and a loud clicky sound, then the Box Navy switches would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cream Blue switches might be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch to make an informed decision on which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience, so go with the one that suits your preferences and typing style the best.
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