Kailh Box Royal vs. Outemu Crystal
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Crystal switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options for enthusiasts are the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Crystal. The Box Royal is a tactile switch, known for its unparalleled tactility. If you crave a satisfying and aggressive tactile feedback, these switches are perfect for you. Additionally, the Box Royals produce a relatively higher pitched sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal is a linear switch that offers a unique typing feel. With a fairly elastic type feel and medium-light weight, these switches provide a smooth and effortless typing experience. Furthermore, the Crystals have a neutral sound profile, making them more suitable for quiet environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Crystal switches, it is evident that they have contrasting properties. The Box Royal features a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the relatively softer nylon plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Crystal switch utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer polycarbonate plastic enhances resonance and creates a clearer sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate housing is advantageous for RGB lighting effects.
However, despite these differences, the use of nylon and polycarbonate in switch housing materials may result in similar outcomes. Both materials offer unique advantages depending on preferences. The nylon housing of the Box Royal provides a satisfying typing experience with deep and full sounds upon pressing the keys. Conversely, the polycarbonate housing in the Crystal switch produces a more resonant sound when keys are released. Both switches excel in their sound properties, offering distinct experiences to users.
Furthermore, it is important to consider that the top and bottom housing materials play different roles in switch performance. The nylon bottom housing of the Box Royal impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, adding to the switch's overall tactile experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing has a greater influence on the sound when keys are released, affecting the switch's acoustics. Understanding these differences allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their desired sound profile and usage requirements.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Crystal switches exhibit contrasting housing materials and resulting sound profiles. The Box Royal's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Crystal's polycarbonate housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. However, both materials have their own unique advantages, offering satisfying typing experiences. Additionally, considering the distinct roles of top and bottom housing materials allows users to select a switch that aligns with their preferences in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force for both switches is the same, with both requiring 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This means that users can expect similar results when it comes to typing responsiveness. However, the bottom out force showcases a contrast between the two switches. The Kailh Box Royal has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. It's important to note that weight plays a crucial role in selecting a switch, as lighter switches allow for extended typing sessions, while heavier ones offer a stronger push feel. In this case, the Kailh Box Royal would be considered the heavier option, while the Outemu Crystal is relatively lighter.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Crystal switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Royal switch. A travel distance of 4 mm is more in line with the traditional distance, while a shorter travel distance like 3.6 mm is considered on the shallower side. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Box Royal switch a popular choice among them. However, some people find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and they may prefer the longer travel distance provided by the Crystal switch, which offers a more hearty depth when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for responsiveness and feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25, whereas the Outemu Crystal 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 Royal tactile switch is best known for its sharp, binary tactility, making it one of the most tactile switches available. If you prefer a highly intense and aggressive tactile feedback, the Box Royal is the perfect choice for you. In terms of sound, the Box Royal produces a relatively higher pitched sound when pressed. This adds to the crispness and sharpness of the switch's overall profile.
On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique typing experience with its fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight. This combination results in a smooth and linear typing experience, without the tactile feedback of the Box Royal. The Crystal switches have a neutral sound profile, characterized by a chirpy element that sets them apart from other switches.
Comparing the sound qualities, the Box Royal has a high-pitched sound profile while the Crystal is chirpy with a hint of high-pitched sound. Both switches produce sharp and distinct sound profiles, but the specific sound you experience may also be influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Box Royal provides a sharp tactile experience with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. On the other hand, the Crystal switches offer a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, if you prioritize aggressive tactility and a high-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more refined typing experience with a unique chirpy sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is a great option. Both switches have their own distinct qualities and are suitable for different preferences. It's important to consider factors such as sound, feel, and personal preference when choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're someone who craves an intense and aggressive tactile feedback, and prefers a higher-pitched sound profile, then the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches provide a sharp and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Additionally, the Box Royals have a medium-heavy weight that adds to the overall tactile experience.
On the other hand, if you're seeking a unique and smooth linear typing experience with a medium-light touch, the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be more suitable for you. These switches offer a fairly elastic feel and have a bottom out force of 55 grams, making them lighter than the Box Royals. The Crystals provide a neutral sound profile when typing, but also have a slight chirpy sound that sets them apart from other switches.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Box Royal and Outemu Crystal switches depends on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and typing experience. Consider whether you prefer a sharp and aggressive tactile feedback (Box Royal) or a smooth and refined typing experience (Crystal). It's important to try out different switches and explore your options to find the one that perfectly suits your typing style and preferences.
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