Kailh Box Royal vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Lime are both excellent choices for those seeking a tactile typing experience. The Box Royal switches are renowned for their sharp and binary tactility, making them perfect for individuals who prefer a nearly aggressive tactile feedback. Additionally, these switches produce a relatively higher pitched sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switches offer a unique and lightweight typing experience with a touch of tactility. These switches possess an approachable tactility and are even silenced, making them ideal for tactile enthusiasts who desire a feathery light typing experience. Their sound profile is characterized as more neutral and subtle. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch so that you can make an informed decision based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Lime both utilize nylon as their housing material, which makes them similar in terms of sound profile. The nylon top housing in both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This characteristic of nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to the deeper sound profile and provides a softer feel when pressed down. It absorbs more sound and impact compared to harder plastics, allowing for a smoother bottom-out experience.
While both switches share the same housing materials and their resulting qualities, any differences in their top and bottom housings will affect specific aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing, for instance, has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that when pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent in terms of sound and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more noticeable effect on the sound produced when releasing a key. It is worth noting that these differences are nuanced, but they contribute to the overall feel and sound of each switch.
In summary, the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Lime both boast nylon as their housing material, which results in similar sound profiles. The nylon top and bottom housings of both switches absorb more sound and impact, creating a deeper and fuller sound while typing. While any differences between the top and bottom housings will affect specific aspects of the typing experience, both switches provide a satisfying and enhanced typing experience. Whether using the Kailh Box Royal or the Outemu Lime, users can expect a softer feel, deeper sound profile, and a more rounded overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, we can observe some notable differences. The Box Royal has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Lime's lighter force of 35 grams. Similarly, the Box Royal has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Lime's bottom out force is lighter at 45 grams.
These variances in force can greatly impact the typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Lime switch would be the ideal choice. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a smoother and less fatiguing typing experience, making it suitable for longer periods of use, such as in office environments or during extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Box Royal switch caters to those who prefer a more substantial push feel. With its higher actuation and bottom out forces, it offers a more tactile feedback and a satisfyingly pronounced keystroke. This can be appealing to individuals who enjoy a heavier and more pronounced typing experience.
Overall, the weight of a switch is a crucial factor to consider based on personal preference and individual typing needs. While the Box Royal provides a medium-hefty feel, the Lime offers a lighter touch. Both options are capable of satisfying users who prefer their respective force levels, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Comparing the two, it can be said that the Box Royal has a slightly longer travel distance than the Lime. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you value responsiveness and quick reactions, the Outemu Lime with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer switches with a bit more depth. In this case, the Kailh Box Royal with its slightly longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Lime 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch has a relatively higher-pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This is ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and prominent sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch has a neutral sound profile, meaning it has a moderate sound level that is suitable for various purposes. Additionally, the Lime switch is described as muted, resulting in a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. It is perfect for those who want a more subtle and peaceful typing experience, especially in shared spaces. Keep in mind, however, that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch is best known for its sharp tactility. This means that it offers a high feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. It provides a truly aggressive tactile experience, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a very tactile switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch offers a mild feel, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone, with approachable qualities that can be enjoyed by most users. Furthermore, the Lime switch is described as feathery, meaning it requires little exertion from your finger and is exceptionally light to press. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions, such as for gaming, school, or work. Additionally, the Lime switch is also polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Lime switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Royal provides an aggressive and sharp tactility, with a higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Lime switch offers a more approachable and lightweight typing experience, with a muted sound profile. The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired. If you enjoy a highly tactile and sharp switch with a distinct sound, the Box Royal is a great choice. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter and more gentle tactile feel with a quieter sound, the Lime switch would be a better fit. With either option, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a strong and aggressive tactility, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches provide a sharp, binary tactility that is unmatched in intensity. Additionally, if you prefer a higher pitched sound profile, the Box Royal will deliver. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lightweight typing experience with a touch of tactility, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is the perfect fit. These switches are incredibly unique, offering a feathery light typing feel and approachable tactility. The Lime switches are also silenced, ensuring a quieter typing experience. The sound profile of the Lime switches is neutral and muted, suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and Outemu Lime switches depends on your preference for tactility, sound profile, and typing feel.
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