Kailh Box Navy vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Navy, a clicky switch, to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, a linear switch, two distinct options emerge for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Box Navy is ideal for those who crave a robust typing experience, with a clicky sound signature reminiscent of classic buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a silent and smooth typing experience without the audible feedback. If you're looking for a heavier, more tactile typing experience, the Box Navy is the way to go. However, if you prefer a quieter and more linear feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the better choice. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Silent Ocean, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches intending to use RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing feature. While the top housings are similar, the Box Navy stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Despite the similarities in their top housings, the Box Navy and the Dustproof Silent Ocean differ in their bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the typing experience for users. While the top housing primarily affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In this aspect, both switches offer a unique tactile feedback and sound experience that sets them apart from one another.
Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in defining the sound profile and tactile feedback of mechanical switches. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Box Navy and the Dustproof Silent Ocean showcases how different materials can influence the overall typing experience. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound profile of polycarbonate in the top housing or the deeper and fuller sound profile of nylon in the bottom housing, each material brings its own unique characteristics to the switches. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from both switches, albeit with subtle differences in sound and feel due to their housing materials.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch. The Box Navy requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 90 grams to bottom out, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean requires 45 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches provide different levels of resistance, catering to users who prefer either a heavier or lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Box Navy has the longer travel distance compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. The Box Navy allows for a slightly deeper keypress, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a good choice for those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, catering to different preferences in typing or gaming experiences.
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 Silent Ocean 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 switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience, characterized by a high-pitched sound profile and a clean, sharp sound. This creates an immersive auditory experience reminiscent of vintage keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, there is no information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch provides a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience. With a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keypress, these switches deliver a satisfying typing sensation. The Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, unfortunately, does not have any available information regarding its feel. If the feel of the switches is similar, you can expect a comparable experience in terms of feedback and actuation force.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a heavy typing experience and a distinctive sound signature, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience and are more interested in linear switches, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean may suit your needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a loud and clicky sound profile, the Kailh Box Navy switches would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a vintage feel reminiscent of the buckling spring keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switches would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice between the Box Navy and Dustproof Silent Ocean switches will depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Consider these factors carefully before making your decision to ensure that you choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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