Kailh Box Royal vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics. Two popular switches that offer distinct experiences are the Kailh Box Royal, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Yellow Silver, a linear switch. The Box Royal is widely recognized for its unparalleled tactility, providing a sharp and binary feedback that is perfect for those who crave a highly pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu offers a lighter actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making it an ideal choice for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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 Yellow Silver, we find that they differ in their top housing materials. The Box Royal features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Yellow Silver's top housing is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches use nylon. This common housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both the Box Royal and Yellow Silver have similar qualities in terms of bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Yellow Silver will depend on the preferred sound profile. The Box Royal, with its nylon top housing, will provide a deeper and duller sound, while the Yellow Silver, with its polycarbonate top housing, will produce a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of the bottom housing, providing a deep and full sound when typing. So, if a user desires a unique sound when releasing a key, the top housing material becomes a crucial factor in the decision-making process.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is clear that there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Box Royal switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is the same as the Yellow Silver switch. This means that both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a difference. The Box Royal switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it heavier than the Yellow Silver switch, which has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that pressing all the way down on the Box Royal switch will require a slightly heavier force compared to the Yellow Silver switch.
Considering the weight of the switch is essential for different individuals based on their preferences. Some users may prefer a lighter actuation force, like the 45 grams found in both the Box Royal and Yellow Silver switches, as it allows for longer periods of typing without straining the fingers. This lighter actuation force is beneficial for keyboards used in work settings or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with a heavier force. In this case, the Box Royal switch would be the preferred choice with its 70-gram bottom out force.
In summary, while both the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have the same actuation force, the Box Royal switch has a heavier bottom out force. This contrast in force provides individuals with the option to choose between a lighter typing experience or a more robust and substantial feel when typing.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Box Royal offers a slightly shallower travel distance compared to the Yellow Silver.
For gamers who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Box Royal may be preferred. The shorter distance allows for quicker key presses, which can be advantageous in competitive gaming. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. In this case, the Yellow Silver with its longer travel distance might be a better choice as it provides a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. Both options can provide satisfactory results, with the Box Royal offering a shorter travel distance and the Yellow Silver offering a longer travel distance for those who prefer it.
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 Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
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 well-known for its sharp, binary tactility, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an aggressive tactile experience. When it comes to sound, these switches have a relatively higher pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch from Outemu is favored by gamers and typists who prefer speed and responsiveness. It features a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of purposes. The sound of the Yellow Silver switch is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile without leaning towards a specific tone. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the Yellow Silver switch.
To conclude, while the Kailh Box Royal and Outemu Yellow Silver switches differ in both sound and feel, they cater to different preferences. The Box Royal offers a highly tactile and sharp experience with a higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver provides a light actuation force, neutral sound profile, and focuses on speed and responsiveness. If you prefer a tactile switch with sharp feedback and a high-pitched sound, the Box Royal would be a suitable choice. However, if you prioritize a light and linear feel with a neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver is worth considering. It's important to keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're someone who craves a highly tactile and aggressive typing experience, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and sharp, binary tactility, these switches offer a satisfying and unmistakable feedback with each keypress. Additionally, if you prefer a higher pitched sound profile, the Box Royal will deliver that as well.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother and more responsive typing experience, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch would suit you better. With a bottom out force of 55 grams and a light actuation force, these switches offer a speediness and responsiveness favorable for gamers and typists. The neutral sound profile of the Yellow Silver makes it suitable for a variety of scenarios, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, or if you're using the keyboard at home or work.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to the level of tactility and sound profile you desire.
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