Kailh Box Royal vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and Outemu Silent Ocean offer unique experiences for users to consider. The Box Royal is praised for its incredibly tactile nature, providing a nearly aggressive tactility that is unmatched. With a sharp, binary tactility and a higher-pitched sound profile, these switches are ideal for those who prioritize feedback and intensity while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean is a linear switch that doesn't boast any specific standout characteristics but offers a smooth and quiet typing experience. If you prefer a more subdued typing experience without the heavy tactile feedback, the 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
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 Silent Ocean, we see that the Box Royal utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate housing of the Silent Ocean may be more visually appealing for those interested in RGB lighting due to its translucency.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Box Royal and the Silent Ocean utilize nylon material. This results in a similar typing experience for both switches, as the softer plastic composition of nylon absorbs sound to create a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite the similarity in bottom housing material, each switch will still have its own distinct sound profile thanks to the differences in their top housings. Therefore, even though the housing materials for the bottom portion of the switches are the same, the differences in the top housings will still play a significant role in the overall sound experience.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Silent Ocean ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Box Royal's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound. Both switches utilize nylon bottom housings for a similar typing experience, but the visual appeal of the translucent polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Ocean may be a deciding factor for some users. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initiating a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Box Royal requires a heavier force of 70 grams, while the Silent Ocean needs 65 grams, making the Silent Ocean slightly lighter in terms of fully pressing the key down. For those who prefer a lighter touch to prevent fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Silent Ocean may be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Box Royal would be the preferable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch. The Box Royal offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is advantageous for gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to the preferences of different users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 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 profile, creating a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, there is no information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch. Depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, the sound of the switch may vary.
In terms of feel, the Box Royal switch is praised for its sharp and binary tactility, providing a strong and distinct tactile bump with each keypress. Meanwhile, there is no information available about the feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch. If one enjoys a highly tactile experience, the Box Royal may be the preferred choice.
Considering all available information, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch stands out for its aggressive tactility and high-pitched sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, not much is known about the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of tactility and sound profile. It is advisable to try out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound profile. If you enjoy a sharp, aggressive tactile feedback and a higher-pitched sound when typing, the Box Royals are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother key press without the added tactility and noise, the Silent Ocean switches would be a better fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize tactility or a quieter typing experience.
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