Kailh Box Royal vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Silver mechanical keyboard switches, the key factor to consider is the type of typing experience you are looking for. The Box Royal is ideal for those who crave maximum tactility in their keystrokes, with a sharp and pronounced tactile feedback that is almost aggressive. The sound profile of the Box Royal is relatively higher pitched, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch is a linear switch with no tactile bump, providing a smooth keystroke with no interruptions. While the Box Royal is known for its tactile feedback, the Silver switch offers a quieter and more consistent typing experience. However, determining the best switch for you goes beyond these generalities, so let's dive in a bit deeper to help you make the right choice.
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
Standard
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 main difference between the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Silver switches lies in the type of plastic used. The Box Royal features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Silver switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and leads to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. While the Box Royal's nylon bottom housing provides a similar deep and full sound profile, the Silver switch also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, showcasing the same sound characteristics.
Despite both switches having a nylon bottom housing, the difference in their top housing materials significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of each switch. The Box Royal's softer nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound when compared to the sharper and more resonant sound produced by the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Silver. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Box Royal provides a more traditional typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Silver switches will come down to personal preference regarding the sound profile and typing experience. The split between the bottom and top housing materials in each switch offers a unique combination of characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile with the Box Royal's nylon housing or a sharper and crisper sound with the Silver's polycarbonate housing, both switches provide distinct qualities that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, we find that both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Box Royal has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the Silver's 65 grams. This makes the Box Royal slightly heavier in terms of overall force required for typing. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Outemu Silver may be a better choice, as it allows for a smoother and easier keystroke. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Kailh Box Royal for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision 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 Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Box Royal has a shorter travel distance at 3.6 mm, while the Silver has a longer travel distance at 4 mm. The Box Royal offers a quicker response time for gamers who prefer a shorter travel distance, while the Silver provides a more substantial key press with its longer distance. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Silver being slightly on the longer end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for key press depth 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 Silver 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
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch offers a high-pitched sound profile and a sharp, aggressive tactility that provides intense feedback with each keypress. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch has unknown qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a strong tactile bump and distinctive feedback, the Box Royal would be the ideal choice. However, if you are looking for a smoother, linear feel without any tactile feedback, the Silver switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a typist or gamer who values intense tactility and a higher-pitched sound profile in your keyboard switches, then the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, linear typing experience without any tactile feedback and enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Outemu Silver linear switch is the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and sound profile. Consider your typing style and preferences carefully before making your choice.
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