Kailh Box Royal vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Royal, a tactile switch known for its aggressive tactility and high-pitched sound profile, and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, a clicky switch with no specific standout feature, it really comes down to personal preference. The Box Royal is ideal for those seeking an intense tactile feedback experience, while the Dustproof Purple may appeal to those looking for a standard clicky switch. 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
55g
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
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 Purple, it is evident that they both utilize nylon as the material for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. Despite both switches using the same material for the bottom housing, the overall sound profile and feel may still vary because of the differences in the top housing material.
On the other hand, the top housing material differs between the two switches, with the Box Royal featuring a nylon top housing and the Dustproof Purple utilizing a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Purple results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Box Royal's nylon top housing. This difference is attributed to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Purple is well-suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of each keystroke. While both the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Dustproof Purple share nylon as the material for the bottom housing, their differences in the top housing material result in distinct sound characteristics. The Box Royal's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Dustproof Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and tactile feedback of each switch.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the heavier 55 grams required by the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Royal requires a heavier 70 grams compared to the 65 grams of the Dustproof Purple. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy range when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Box Royal may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Purple for its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is evident that the Box Royal has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Box Royal allows for a quicker press response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred option for gamers seeking faster input. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple offers a deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which may be more satisfying for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Purple 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, aggressive tactility, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. This can offer a satisfying and responsive typing experience for those who prefer a more intense tactile feedback. Additionally, the sound profile of the Box Royal is higher-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is not available, so it is difficult to directly compare the sound and feel qualities between the two switches. However, based on the characteristics of the Box Royal, if you enjoy a highly tactile and clicky switch with a higher pitched sound profile, the Box Royal may be a suitable option for you. It is important to consider other factors such as your keyboard and keycaps when choosing a switch to ensure the overall typing experience meets your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're in search of a keyboard switch with an incredibly tactile experience and a high-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its aggressive tactility and sharp feedback, these switches provide a unique typing experience that is sure to satisfy tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not particularly concerned with tactile feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for tactility and sound profile.
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