Kailh Box Navy vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Dustproof Purple are two popular options to consider. The Box Navy switch is ideal for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience and appreciate the distinctive sound and feel of a clicky switch. Reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, the Box Navy is described as sharp, resonant, invigorating, crunchy, and stiff. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple switch offers a different typing experience with a unique clicky feel, although it may not have a specific standout feature like the Box Navy. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
65g
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 Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Dustproof Purple both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Box Navy and the Dustproof Purple differ in their nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
When comparing the housing materials of the Box Navy and the Dustproof Purple, the top housing plays a significant role in determining the sound profile of each switch. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to a sharper and crisper sound when typing. However, the bottom housing, made of nylon in both cases, influences the depth and fullness of the sound produced. The softer nature of nylon allows for a rounder sound that absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing.
Although the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Dustproof Purple share similarities in their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing, they differentiate themselves with the nylon bottom housing. While both switches offer a sharp and crisp sound profile due to the polycarbonate top housing, the nylon bottom housing enhances the sound experience by providing a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder quality. This combination of housing materials in each switch results in a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, we can see that the Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Dustproof Purple's lighter 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Navy requires a hefty 90 grams of force, while the Dustproof Purple is lighter at 65 grams. This means that the Box Navy offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier overall force needed, while the Dustproof Purple is slightly lighter for those who prefer a less strenuous typing feel. Both switches offer a satisfying clicky feel, but the Box Navy will provide a more intense typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Box Navy has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Purple. The shorter travel distance of the Box Navy may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Purple may provide a more satisfying key press depth for some users. Both switches offer clicky feedback, but the difference in travel distance may impact the typing experience for individuals based on their personal preferences. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a shorter or longer travel distance for your typing or gaming needs.
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 Purple 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
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, offering a high-pitched and immersive auditory experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is not available. When it comes to feel, the Box Navy switch is described as sharp, invigorating, and stiff, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. The tactile feedback is prominent, creating a satisfying typing sensation. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the tactile feel of the Dustproof Purple switch.
Overall, if you are a newcomer looking for a heavy typing experience with a clicky switch, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be a great choice for you. With its resonant and crunchy sound profile, along with its sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, you can expect a satisfying and immersive typing experience. While the information on the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch is limited, based on the available data, you can anticipate similar results in terms of sound and feel with the Box Navy switch. Consider your preference for sound and feel when making a decision between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a vintage feel and enjoy the loud clicky sound of a switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches would be a great choice for you. Their high bottom out force and resonant, crunchy sound profile make them stand out for those who prioritize tactile feedback and auditory experience in their typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and are not as concerned about sound, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in typing experience and sound profile.
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