Kailh Box Royal vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're trying to decide between the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Dustproof Black mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find yourself comparing a highly tactile switch with a linear option. The Box Royal switches are renowned for their intense tactility, providing a sharp and definitive tactile feedback that feels almost aggressive. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black switches offer a smooth and consistent linear keystroke without any tactile bump. While the Box Royals deliver a higher-pitched sound profile, the Dustproof Black remains relatively quiet. Ultimately, the Box Royal is ideal for those who crave an intense tactile experience, while the Dustproof Black is a more subtle and uniform choice. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Dustproof Black, we see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of nylon which absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, while the Box Royal uses nylon for its top housing as well, the Dustproof Black features a polycarbonate top housing. This difference in material results in the Box Royal producing a deeper sound profile, while the Dustproof Black creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffness of polycarbonate.
Looking at the aesthetic aspect, the Box Royal's nylon top housing may have a more muted appearance compared to the Dustproof Black's polycarbonate top housing, which is likely clear and ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. The use of different materials for the top housing can also affect the overall feel of the switch when typing. The softer nylon top housing of the Box Royal may provide a slightly softer feel when releasing a key, while the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Black may result in a more sharp and precise feel upon key release.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Dustproof Black may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, feel, and aesthetics. Both switches offer different qualities based on their housing materials, with the Box Royal providing a deeper sound profile and potentially softer feel, while the Dustproof Black offers a sharper sound profile and a more precise feel. Depending on your typing style and preference for aesthetics, either switch could be a great option for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch with a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Royal requires 70 grams, which is still lighter than the Dustproof Black's 80 grams. The Box Royal falls on the medium-heavy side in terms of force required, while the Dustproof Black leans towards the heavier end. This means that the Box Royal may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black is better suited for individuals who enjoy a more substantial and deliberate typing feel. In both cases, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience, ensuring that users can choose the switch that best fits their preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch. The Box Royal will provide a more responsive typing experience, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial and satisfying key press. Both switches will provide different typing experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Dustproof Black 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, making it one of the most tactile options available. This results in a more aggressive tactile feedback compared to other switches. The sound profile of the Box Royal is relatively higher pitched, giving it a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch does not have a known quality for sound. When it comes to feel, the Box Royal is described as having a sharp tactile bump that is strong and prominent with each keypress. The feel of the Dustproof Black switch is unknown.
Overall, if you prefer a highly tactile switch with a sharp sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal switch would be a great choice. However, if you are looking for a linear switch with a different feel and sound, the Outemu Dustproof Black may be worth considering. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it is important to consider all aspects before making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a very tactile typing experience and prefers switches with a sharp and intense tactility, then the Kailh Box Royal switches would be a great choice for you. The 70-gram bottom out force provides a satisfying feel with each keypress. On the other hand, if you are more focused on having a heavy linear switch with no particular emphasis on tactility, the Outemu Dustproof Black switches with an 80-gram bottom out force might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to whether you prioritize a tactile typing experience or a heavy linear switch for your keyboard setup.
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