Kailh Box Navy vs. Outemu Peach (V3)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Peach (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a heavy typing experience and a satisfying clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy switches are an ideal choice. These switches have a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. With their sharp and resonant sound signature, along with a satisfying tactile feedback, typing on the Box Navy switches is a truly invigorating experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight and silenced typing experience, the Outemu Peach switches are perfect for you. These switches are categorized as neutral and mild, offering a subtle and polished typing experience. The feather-lightness of the Outemu Peaches makes them an excellent choice for linear switch enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Outemu Peach switches have distinct differences. The Box Navy features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness creates a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who value a precise and vibrant typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and thus produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This makes the Outemu Peach suitable for those who prefer a mellower and rounder typing sound.
As for the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon material. Nylon is known to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, both the Box Navy and the Outemu Peach will provide similar qualities when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying and robust experience for users who appreciate a tactile and audibly pleasing typing sensation.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the impact of the housing materials is split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing predominantly affects the sound when a key is released. Thus, the choice of polycarbonate or nylon in the top housing will significantly impact the auditory aspect of typing, with a crisper and clearer sound being characteristic of the Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing, and a deeper and fuller sound being synonymous with the Outemu Peach's nylon top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, it becomes evident that they differ significantly in terms of weight. The Box Navy switch requires a heavier force for both actuation and bottoming out, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams. In contrast, the Outemu Peach switch is considerably lighter, requiring only 40 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out.
The difference in weight plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience each switch offers. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Outemu Peach switch would be the ideal choice. Its low actuation and bottom out forces allow for effortless typing and extended periods of use without fatigue. This lighter weight is particularly advantageous for individuals using their keyboards for work or engaging in long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy switch provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience due to its heavier forces. This switch is suitable for users who enjoy the feel of a stronger push and desire a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke. However, it is worth noting that excessive force may cause fatigue over time, making it less suitable for extended typing sessions.
In summary, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch demonstrate notable differences in weight. The Box Navy switch offers a heavier and more substantial typing experience, while the Outemu Peach switch provides a lighter and effortless touch. Choosing between the two depends on personal preference, with some individuals favoring a heavier force for a more satisfying typing experience, while others prioritize a lighter touch for prolonged usability.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is slightly longer than the travel distance of the Outemu Peach linear switch at 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box Navy slightly exceeding the average of 4.0 mm and the Outemu Peach falling slightly below.
For gamers or anyone seeking faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Outemu Peach may be preferred. This allows for quicker keystrokes and potentially improved performance in fast-paced situations. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy may provide a more satisfying and pronounced keystroke for those who prefer a deeper depression when pressing down on keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and specific needs. Both options offer different tactile experiences, with the Outemu Peach focusing on a shorter and more rapid keystroke, while the Kailh Box Navy prioritizes a deeper and more pronounced depression.
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 Peach (V3) comes in at $3.40.
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 best known for providing a heavy typing experience and a sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. When typing on these switches, you can expect a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean and sharp, with a crunchiness similar to stepping on piles of autumn leaves. In terms of feel, the Box Navy offers a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback with a strong and crisp tactile bump. It requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, providing a stiff typing feel. These switches are ideal for those who enjoy a heavier and more tactile typing experience.
On the other hand, the Outemu Peach linear switch is known for its lightweight and silenced properties. These switches are perfect for linear switch enthusiasts who prefer a feathery light typing experience. In terms of sound, the Outemu Peach switch has a neutral sound profile with a moderate volume. It is considered muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. This makes it suitable for shared spaces or situations where noise reduction is desired. The feel of the Outemu Peach switch is mild and subtle, offering a gentle resistance and a middle-ground typing experience. It has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. These switches are approachable to most typists.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Box Navy provides a heavy and tactile typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach offers a lightweight and silenced typing experience with a neutral and muted sound profile. While the Box Navy is known for its sharp and stiff feel, the Outemu Peach provides a mild and subtle typing feel with a polished finish for smooth key travel. Depending on personal preferences, one can choose the switch that suits their desired typing experience. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to deciding between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you are seeking a heavy typing experience with a vintage feel, and enjoy the sound and tactile feedback of a clicky switch, then the Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and silenced typing experience, the Outemu Peach switches are ideal. They offer a feather-light touch and produce a quieter sound compared to the Box Navy. Additionally, the Box Navy produces a resonant and crunchy sound, while the Outemu Peach has a neutral and muted sound profile. In terms of feel, the Box Navy provides a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience, while the Outemu Peach offers a mild, subtle, and polished typing feel. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and weight when choosing between these two switches.
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