Kailh Box Royal vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean offer distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Box Royal is renowned for its extreme tactility, providing a sharp and binary tactile feedback that is ideal for those seeking a pronounced key response. Conversely, the Dustproof Silent Ocean is a linear switch, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump. If you prioritize a silent typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the better choice for you. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
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 housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean have distinct qualities that affect the sound and feel of the switches. The Box Royal utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of the plastic. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, they ultimately contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box Royal and the Dustproof Silent Ocean utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the switches may still exhibit differences in sound and feel due to variations in other components and design elements. However, the reliance on nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent and familiar typing experience for users of both switches.
The split between the top and bottom housings in a switch allows for a combination of qualities from each material to be felt during typing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed, while the top housing influences the sound emitted when keys are released. With the Box Royal and the Dustproof Silent Ocean featuring different materials for their top and bottom housings, users can expect a dynamic typing experience that blends the unique characteristics of nylon and polycarbonate to provide an enjoyable and satisfying feel with each keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, the Box Royal has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 65 grams, making it slightly heavier and providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly more tactile and pronounced typing experience with the Box Royal, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean may offer a slightly softer bottom out feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress may lean towards the Box Royal with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 Silent Ocean 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is known for its high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp noise with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is touted for its sharp and intense tactility, offering a strong and distinct tactile bump with every key press. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch's feel is unknown, so it is challenging to provide a comparison on this front. If you prefer a highly tactile typing experience, the Box Royal may be the better choice for you.
In conclusion, if you prioritize a sharp and aggressive tactile experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch could be the ideal option. However, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience with a linear switch, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean may suit your preferences. Keep in mind that personal preferences play a significant role in selecting the right switch for your needs, so it's essential to consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics, and depending on your preferences, you can achieve a satisfactory typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for tactility and sound. If you value a highly tactile typing experience with a sharp feedback intensity and prefer a higher-pitched sound profile, then the Box Royal is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with a slightly lighter actuation force, then the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be more your style. Consider your typing preferences and the environment you'll be using the keyboard in when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose the one that best suits your typing needs.
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