Kailh Box Navy vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Dustproof Blue are two popular options to consider. The Box Navy switch is ideal for those who prefer a heavy typing experience and enjoy the distinctive sound and tactile feedback of a clicky switch. With a sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, the Box Navy switch is categorized as sharp, resonant, invigorating, crunchy, and stiff. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch does not have a specific standout feature but is still a solid choice for those looking for a reliable clicky switch. 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
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
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 Dustproof Blue, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common material, they may have subtle differences in the overall sound produced due to variations in design and construction.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box Navy and the Dustproof Blue utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still have distinct sound profiles based on other factors such as spring weight, stem design, and overall switch construction.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact with each other, it is important to note that each material brings specific qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even if the housing materials are the same for both switches, their overall typing feel and sound may still vary based on how these materials are implemented in the construction of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, there are some notable differences. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Dustproof Blue's 50 grams, making it a bit more resistant to accidental key presses. Additionally, the Box Navy has a significantly heavier bottom out force of 90 grams, compared to the Dustproof Blue's lighter 65 grams. This means that typing on the Box Navy will result in a more pronounced tactile feedback and require a firmer press. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Box Navy for its heavier forces. However, those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may find the Dustproof Blue more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Box Navy has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Dustproof Blue's 4 mm. The difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the typing experience for some users. With a shorter travel distance, the Box Navy may provide a quicker response time for gamers looking for rapid keystrokes. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue offers a slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel 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 Dustproof 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
Overall, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is characterized by a resonant and crunchy sound profile, making it a popular choice for those seeking a vintage buckling spring keyboard experience. The tactile feedback of the Box Navy is sharp, invigorating, and stiff, providing a satisfying typing sensation for those who enjoy a distinct tactile bump with each keystroke.
On the other hand, information about the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is not available, so it is difficult to provide a direct comparison in terms of sound and feel. However, based on the qualities of the Kailh Box Navy switch, it is likely that the Dustproof Blue switch may offer a similar level of clickiness and tactility.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switches are suitable for individuals who prefer a clicky typing experience with pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and potentially other factors such as price and availability. It is recommended to try out both switches if possible to determine which one best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound signature. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a high bottom out force, sharp tactile feedback, and a resonant and crunchy sound profile, then the Box Navy switches are the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are not concerned with sound signature or tactile feedback, the Dustproof Blue switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you value most.
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