Kailh Box Royal vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, the differences in functionality and user experience become apparent. The Box Royal is renowned for its intense tactility, offering a sharp and binary tactility that caters to those seeking a highly tactile typing experience. Additionally, the sound profile of the Box Royal is relatively higher pitched, adding to the overall satisfaction of using these switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch lacks a distinctive feature in terms of tactility, making it a more neutral option in comparison. However, the clicky nature of the Outemu Blue provides auditory feedback with each keypress, enhancing typing accuracy and overall satisfaction for users who appreciate the clicky sound. When deciding between these two switches, understanding their unique characteristics is essential. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and Outemu Blue switches both have different top housing materials, with the Box Royal featuring a nylon top housing and the Blue utilizing a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Box Royal creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer composition, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate housing is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, while the opaque nature of the nylon housing may not allow for as vibrant light transmission.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Box Royal and the Blue switches use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, as nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches will result in a duller and rounder sound when typing, creating a consistent experience for users regardless of the switch they choose.
Overall, the differences in top housing materials between the Kailh Box Royal and Outemu Blue switches significantly impact the sound profile and feel of typing. The nylon top housing of the Box Royal creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, the similarities in bottom housing materials mean that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic considerations such as RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Royal requires a heavier force of 70 grams, while the Blue's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Box Royal provides a more tactile typing experience with a heavier feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch may offer a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler keystroke. Both switches have their advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Box Royal being heavier overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is 3.6mm, which is shorter than the travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch at 4mm. The Box Royal offers a slightly shallower press, which may appeal to users looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch provides a slightly deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or other activities that require a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of experience each user is seeking. Both switches provide a tactile response and audible click, so users can expect similar results in terms of feedback regardless of the travel distance difference.
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 Blue 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
In comparing the sound qualities of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, the Box Royal is noted for producing a higher-pitched sound when pressed, giving off a sharp and crisp noise. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Blue switch is not available. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Box Royal is recognized for its sharp and intense tactile feedback, with a distinct and strong tactile bump that can be felt clearly with each keypress. The Outemu Blue switch's tactile feel remains unknown. If you enjoy a highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced feedback sensation, the Box Royal switch may be the preferred choice.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a sharp, aggressive tactility and a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be a suitable option for you. However, if the specifics of the Outemu Blue clicky switch are more aligned with your preferences, you may achieve a similar typing experience with it. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, you should consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you are looking for a switch with a sharp, aggressive tactility and a higher-pitched sound profile, then the Box Royal would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more traditional clicky switch without a specified bottom out force, the Outemu Blue switch may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactile feedback and sound when selecting between these two switches.
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