Kailh Box White V2 vs. Outemu Lime (V3)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Lime (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Lime can significantly affect your typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 switches are celebrated for their clicky nature, offering a satisfying auditory feedback along with crisp tactile responses that make each keystroke feel dynamic and engaging; this makes them ideal for typists who relish a methodical and pronounced typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Lime switches provide a more subtle yet distinctive tactile experience, designed for users who prefer a lightweight feel without the noise—perfect for those seeking a quieter typing environment while still enjoying a hint of tactility. Ultimately, your choice may come down to whether you value the excitement of a loud, clicky switch or the smooth, muted elegance of a more refined tactile option. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Lime switches exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, with the former utilizing polycarbonate and the latter employing nylon. Polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, creating a clearer and more resonant audio experience when the switch is activated. This is especially pronounced with the Box White V2, which benefits from the translucency of polycarbonate for enhanced RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Outemu Lime's nylon top housing produces a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound waves more effectively, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder compared to the crispness of polycarbonate found in the Box White V2.
Interestingly, while the top housing materials differ significantly in their acoustic properties, both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Lime utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This leads to a convergence in the sound profiles produced during typing, as nylon’s characteristics impart a deeper and fuller sound that is consistent across both switches. The design choice to use nylon in the lower housings emphasizes the soft, absorbing qualities that help mitigate any harshness caused by the different top housing materials. Therefore, despite their contrasting top materials, both switches deliver a rich auditory experience due to the shared properties of the nylon bottom housing.
When considering the overall typing experience, the combination of different top and bottom materials in both switches creates a unique dynamic. The Kailh Box White V2's polycarbonate top provides a bright, resonant sound upon key release, while the nylon bottom mitigates any potential sharpness from the switch's overall profile, resulting in a balanced auditory outcome. In comparison, the Outemu Lime relies on a consistent softer sound from both the nylon top and bottom housings, which produces a cohesive and mellow audio signature. Consequently, even though they use different materials for their top housings, users may enjoy a similar tactile and acoustic experience due to the nylon’s shared influence in the bottom housings, allowing them to appreciate both switches in their own right.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it on the lighter side of the spectrum. In contrast, the Outemu Lime switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Lime switch requires less force to actuate, which may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially for extended use. Additionally, while both switches are categorized as light, the Lime is lighter at both the actuation and bottom out levels. Therefore, users seeking a more tactile typing feel with a heavier push should consider the Box White V2, while those favoring a lighter switch that still offers satisfactory feedback should opt for the Outemu Lime.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it's evident that they differ. The Box White V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Outemu Lime features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. For users seeking a more responsive experience, the Lime's 3.3 mm travel distance may be preferable, as it allows for quicker actuation, while typists or gamers who appreciate a more substantial feel might find the Box White V2's 3.6 mm distance more satisfying. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness, you may want to choose the Outemu Lime, but if you value a deeper keystroke, the Box White V2 would be the better fit.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
The Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 White V2 is characterized by its crisp auditory feedback, producing a pronounced click that makes each keystroke satisfying and clear. This clickiness is highly appreciated by enthusiasts who revel in distinct auditory cues during typing or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Lime switch boasts a muted sound profile, making it far less intrusive. While the Lime maintains a neutral tone, indicating its suitability for various environments, its softer auditory signature creates an atmosphere that’s ideal for quieter settings, such as offices where noise reduction is a priority.
Regarding tactile feedback, the Box White V2 switch delivers a robust tactile feel, making every keystroke fully engaging. The pronounced tactility may appeal to users who prefer a type of switch that provides strong resistance and feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch is designed for a gentler experience, featuring a mild and feathery feel that is easy on the fingers. This switch type is suitable for prolonged typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force and subtle tactile bump, providing comfort without the strain that heavier switches may impose over time.
In summary, while both the Kailh Box White V2 and Outemu Lime switches cater to different preferences, they offer distinct characteristics that suit specific user needs. The Box White V2 excels in delivering a crisp, clicky sound and a strong tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory and physical engagement while typing. Conversely, the Outemu Lime emphasizes a softer, more muted sound and a light, polished feel, which is perfect for users who desire a quieter typing experience with less finger fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel; each provides a unique typing experience that caters to different environments and use cases.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a pronounced audible click and tactile feedback that helps you feel each keystroke, the Kailh Box White V2 is an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate a moderate actuation force and are looking for a more engaging typing experience. This switch is ideal for gamers and typists who relish the sound and feel of each key press, making it a satisfying option for those who don't mind a bit of noise in their environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, more subdued experience while still enjoying a light touch, the Outemu Lime is the way to go. Its muted sound profile and feathery actuation force make it perfect for long typing sessions, particularly in shared workspaces or libraries, as it minimizes distractions for you and those around you. In essence, if you’re after an energetic typing feel that allows you to express each action audibly, opt for the Box White V2; if comfort and stealth are your priorities, the Lime will serve you well.
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