Kailh Box Navy vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Dustproof Black. The Box Navy is a clicky switch that is ideal for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience with a loud sound signature and pronounced tactility. In contrast, the Dustproof Black is a linear switch with no specific standout features. If you prefer a sharp, resonant, invigorating, crunchy, and stiff typing experience, the Box Navy is the way to go. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine which switch is the best fit for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
The main difference between the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches lies in their bottom housing material. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, the Box Navy utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. This means that typing on the Box Navy switches will result in a combination of clear and resonant tones from the polycarbonate top housing, along with a more muffled and rounder sound from the nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the Dustproof Black switches feature a polycarbonate top housing paired with a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile to the Box Navy but with a slightly different tone due to the arrangement of the housing materials.
Furthermore, the choice of housing material also affects the overall typing experience of each switch. With the Box Navy switches, the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel is influenced by the nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This creates a softer, more muted typing experience that may appeal to users looking for a quieter switch option. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, thanks to their nylon bottom housing. However, the slight differences in sound profile between the two switches may be noticeable to those with a keen ear for keyboard nuances.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Dustproof Black switches provide users with a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. While the polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound, the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a clearer and more resonant sound like that of the Box Navy or a slightly muted tone like the Dustproof Black, both switches offer a balanced blend of housing materials that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 60 grams. However, the Box Navy has a heavier bottom out force of 90 grams compared to the 80 grams of the Dustproof Black. The heavier bottom out force of the Box Navy provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black offers a slightly lighter bottom out force, which may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Black switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Box Navy switch. The shorter travel distance of the Box Navy switch may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Black switch may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the typing experience desired by the user.
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 Dustproof Black 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 higher-pitched sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. The sharp and crisp clicky sound provides an immersive auditory experience that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch has no specific sound characteristics mentioned, leaving room for personal preferences in terms of 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 distinct typing sensation with each keypress, creating an immersive typing experience. The higher actuation force required for these switches can provide a satisfying tactile response for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is not available, leaving potential users to explore and discover its tactile characteristics.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a heavy typing experience and distinctive clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy switch may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a linear switch with unknown sound and feel characteristics, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch could be a suitable option for exploring different typing experiences. It's essential to consider personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience when choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a loud and tactile clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches would be a great choice for you. The heavy bottom out force and resonant, crunchy sound profile make them a unique and satisfying option for typing enthusiasts who enjoy that vintage feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switches might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and loud clicky sounds or prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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