Kailh Box Navy vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and the Outemu Silver stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Box Navy is a clicky switch that appeals to those who enjoy a heavy typing experience and the satisfying sound signature and tactility that come with it. In contrast, the Outemu Silver is a linear switch with a smooth keystroke, suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without the tactile feedback. While the Box Navy is described as 'Sharp', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy', 'Stiff', the Silver carries no specific categorization. Each switch brings its own unique benefits and drawbacks, catering to different preferences and usage scenarios. 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
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 Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Silver both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually pleasing aesthetic. Both switches offer similar sound profiles and are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience for users looking for a distinct sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Box Navy and the Silver utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other housing materials. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a dulled and rounder sound. This bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing is likely to offer a more cushioned and satisfying typing experience, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts.
While the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Silver differ in their top and bottom housing composition, the unique qualities each material brings to the switch contribute to the overall typing experience. The split between the bottom and top housing allows for a balance of impact on sound and feel when pressing down and releasing keys. Whether it's the crisp sound of polycarbonate or the deep sound of nylon, both switches offer a variety of qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from either switch, with each material bringing its own distinct characteristics to the table.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Box Navy is heavier compared to the Silver. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, making it a heavier option. On the other hand, the Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a lighter feel compared to the Box Navy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Silver would be the better choice. However, if someone prefers a more substantial and heavier typing feel, the Box Navy would be the preferred option. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to individual preferences, ensuring that typing or gaming experiences are comfortable and enjoyable.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Box Navy has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Silver's 4 mm. The Box Navy offers a quicker response time due to its shorter distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for speed in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silver switch provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for responsiveness versus key depth. Both switches offer unique advantages, so choosing the right one will depend on your specific needs and typing style.
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 Silver 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, the Outemu Silver linear switch's sound profile is unknown. When it comes to feel, the Box Navy switch is characterized by its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. In contrast, the feel of the Silver switch is undisclosed. Overall, if you prefer a heavy typing experience with a sharp tactile feedback and resonant clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be the ideal choice. If the qualities of the Outemu Silver linear switch are similar to those of the Box Navy, you can expect a comparable typing experience with both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a vintage feel and enjoy the loud, clicky sound profile of a switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are the way to go. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with no specific sound or feel characteristics that stand out, then the Outemu Silver switches might be more your style. Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Box Navy and Outemu Silver switches will depend on your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feel. Make sure to consider these factors carefully before making your decision on which switch to go with.
Mentioned in this article
