Kailh Box Navy vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Maple Leaf offer unique experiences for users. The Box Navy, a clicky switch, is ideal for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience with a distinctive sound signature and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, provides a different typing feel with its subtle feedback. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches offer different characteristics and sound profiles. The Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, while nylon, a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. While both materials have their own unique qualities, they cater to different preferences for typing experience and sound aesthetics.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Maple Leaf switches use nylon material. This commonality means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the deeper and fuller sound profile created by the nylon material's sound-absorbing properties. Whether it's the Box Navy or the Maple Leaf, the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall tactile feedback and sound experience of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is felt during the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a consistent typing experience across both switches.
While the top housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Maple Leaf differ, the overall typing experience is influenced by both the top and bottom housings. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches. Whether it's the sharp and crisp sound of the Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing or the deep and full sound of the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing, users can enjoy a varied typing experience based on their preference for sound aesthetics and keypress feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Navy requires 90 grams to bottom out, making it heavier than the Maple Leaf which only needs 65 grams. This means that the Box Navy offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel, while the Maple Leaf provides a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback, but for those who prefer a lighter switch, the Maple Leaf would be the better option, while the Box Navy is more suitable for those who prefer a heavier keystroke.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Despite this difference, both switches fall within the range of what is considered standard for mechanical keyboard switches. The Box Navy offers a bit more travel distance, which may provide a slightly more tactile feedback compared to the Maple Leaf. However, the Maple Leaf's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Maple Leaf 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 switch is renowned for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, offering a high-pitched and sharp auditory experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is unknown, leaving room for exploration and experimentation. When it comes to feel, the Box Navy switch is characterized by a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, ensuring a distinct and satisfying typing experience with each keypress. This is in contrast with the unknown tactile qualities of the Maple Leaf switch, making it a wildcard choice for those looking for a unique feel in their mechanical keyboard.
While the sound and feel of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch are well-documented and offer a specific typing experience, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch presents itself as a mysterious and unexplored option. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer the potential for an enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, while the Box Navy switch may be a safe bet for those seeking a heavy and clicky typing experience, trying out the Maple Leaf switch could lead to unexpected and exciting discoveries in the realm of mechanical keyboards. Regardless of the choice made, both switches offer the opportunity for a satisfying and immersive typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a loud and sharp clicky sound, along with a strong tactile bump, then the Kailh Box Navy switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a tactile bump but without the audible click, the Outemu Maple Leaf switches would be more suitable for your needs. Keep in mind that the Kailh Box Navy switches offer a more immersive auditory experience due to their resonant and crunchy sound profile, while the Outemu Maple Leaf switches provide a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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