Kailh Box Royal vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Cream Pink offer distinct typing experiences. The Kailh Box Royal is a tactile switch that is known for its sharp, binary tactility, making it ideal for those who crave a nearly aggressive tactile feedback. With a relatively higher pitched sound profile, these switches are great for those who enjoy a clicky typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink is a linear switch that lacks any tactile bump, providing a smoother keystroke without the distraction of feedback. While it may not offer a defined tactile response, the Cream Pink switch is favored for its quiet operation. 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
65g
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
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
Both the Kailh Box Royal and Outemu Cream Pink switches utilize nylon as their housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity ensures that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches.
Despite both switches sharing the same nylon housing material, a key difference lies in the specific design of the top and bottom housings. In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of the housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction in housing design can lead to subtle variations in the typing experience between the Kailh Box Royal and Outemu Cream Pink switches.
Ultimately, while the Kailh Box Royal and Outemu Cream Pink switches may have different top and bottom housing designs, their shared use of nylon ensures a consistent typing sound and feel. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more satisfying typing experience overall. Whether one prefers the characteristics influenced by the bottom housing of the Kailh Box Royal or the top housing of the Outemu Cream Pink will depend on individual typing preferences and priorities.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Royal requires a heavier 70 grams compared to the Cream Pink's lighter 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Cream Pink may be the preferred choice due to its lower actuation force. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, the Box Royal may be the better option due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Box Royal offers slightly less key travel compared to the Cream Pink, providing a quicker response time which can benefit gamers looking for faster feedback. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Box Royal to be too abrupt, preferring the deeper key press of the Cream Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Cream Pink 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 Royal tactile switch is known for its sharp, binary tactility, offering a nearly aggressive tactile feedback. This switch produces a relatively higher pitched sound when typing, which some users may find appealing for its sharp and crisp tones. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch does not have any known subjective qualities in terms of feel or sound. While details on the feel of the Cream Pink are unknown, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used. In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a sharp and distinct feedback, the Kailh Box Royal may be the ideal choice. However, if the sound and feel of the switch are not essential factors for your typing experience, both switches may provide similar results in terms of performance and durability.
Conclusion
When deciding between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for tactility and sound. If you prefer a sharp, aggressive tactility with a higher-pitched sound profile, then the Box Royal would be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother typing experience with no tactile feedback, then the Cream Pink might be the better option. Consider your typing style and whether you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump or a linear keystroke. Ultimately, the decision should align with your preferences for typing feel and sound.
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