Kailh Box Navy vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Red 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 Red offer distinct experiences for different types of typists. If you prefer a robust typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound, the Box Navy switches are a great choice. Known for their heaviness, sound signature, and tactile feedback reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards, the Box Navy switches are ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switches offer a smooth, linear typing experience without any audible feedback. If you prioritize a quiet and consistent typing feel, the Red switches may be more suitable for you. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Red switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of this plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting for added visual appeal. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Box Navy featuring a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Red's nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Red switches may offer slightly different typing experiences due to the variations in their bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Box Navy contributes to a more profound and resonant sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users. On the other hand, the Red's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a softer and less pronounced sound when typing. While the top housing influences the sound when pressing a key, the qualities of the bottom housing can significantly impact the bottom-out sound and feel of each keypress.
In conclusion, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Red switches will ultimately come down to personal preference regarding the sound profile and typing experience desired. Both switches offer a sharp, higher-pitched sound due to their polycarbonate top housing, but the nylon bottom housing of the Box Navy provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Red's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller sound. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch can help individuals make an informed decision based on their preferences for typing and gaming.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Red linear switch's lighter 46 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Navy is also heavier at 90 grams, while the Outemu Red is lighter at 62 grams. This means that the Box Navy requires more force to both trigger a keystroke and to fully press the key down compared to the Outemu Red switch. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Kailh Box Navy, while those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Outemu Red. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, so it ultimately comes down to individual preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Box Navy has a shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Red. The difference between the two may not seem significant, but for those who prefer a shallower actuation, the Box Navy would be the better choice. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor switches with shorter travel distances for quicker response times. On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a deeper key press may find the longer travel distance of the Outemu Red to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired 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 Red 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 clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy auditory experience, characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile and a clean, sharp click reminiscent of vintage buckling spring keyboards. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have a specific sound description provided, but it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box Navy is known for its sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, with a distinct tactile bump and a firm actuation force that provides a satisfying typing sensation. Additionally, the Box Navy is described as stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. Unfortunately, there is no specific feel description provided for the Outemu Red linear switch.
Overall, if you enjoy a heavier typing experience with a loud and tactile click, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience without tactile feedback, the Outemu Red linear switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a distinctive clicky sound and tactile feedback reminiscent of vintage keyboards, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience without the clicky noise, the Outemu Red linear switches would be a better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose the one that aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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