Kailh Box White V2 vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the unique characteristics of various options. The Kailh Box White V2 is a clicky switch celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and distinct audible click, providing a satisfying typing experience that appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown offers a tactile response without the accompanying noise, making it a preferred choice for individuals who seek a quieter work environment while still enjoying the benefits of tactile feedback. Each switch has its merits: the Box White V2 is ideal for typists and gamers who thrive on auditory cues to enhance their performance, while the Outemu Brown caters to users looking for subtlety and versatility, suitable for both gaming and office tasks. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Brown switches share a striking similarity in their top housings, both made from polycarbonate. This choice of material significantly influences the sound profile of the switches, resulting in a sharper and crisper auditory feedback when typing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes not only to the quality of sound — producing a clear and resonant tone — but also to the aesthetic appeal, particularly for users who appreciate RGB lighting. The translucence of the polycarbonate top housing enables vibrant backlighting to shine through, enhancing the visual experience during use. This shared aspect ensures that users of both switches will enjoy a similar auditory clarity and vibrant RGB effects.
Divergence occurs when it comes to the bottom housing, where both switches opt for nylon — a classic material known for its unique sound characteristics. While both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Brown produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon's relatively softer plastic composition, this consistency ensures that both switches provide a distinctive contrast to the sharper sounds emitted from their polycarbonate tops. On bottoming out, the nylon effectively absorbs more sound, contributing to a more muted and rounded audio experience. In essence, while both switches rely on nylon to shape the bottom-out sound and feel, the lush resonance offered by the nylon bottom allows for a pleasant balance against the crisp highs produced by the polycarbonate top.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Brown highlights how the characteristics of switch housing materials interact to produce a cohesive typing experience. Through their complementary use of materials, both switches cater to the preferences of typists who enjoy a vivid sound profile that ranges from the bright notes of the polycarbonate to the deeper tones of the nylon. Thus, for users seeking tactile feedback with enhanced sound clarity, both the Kailh Box White V2 and Outemu Brown offer an appealing and similar auditory journey, despite their individual nuances.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch to the Outemu Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Box White V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to type for extended periods without fatigue, which is advantageous for those who use their keyboards for long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users prefer for its tactile feedback. This means that while both switches serve different user preferences, the Box White V2 is better suited for those who favor a lighter touch, whereas the Brown switch is ideal for those seeking a firmer feel. Overall, the difference in weight reflects the distinct typing preferences of users, with the Kailh Box White V2 being the lighter option and the Outemu Brown being the heavier one.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This distinction suggests that users of the Box White V2 will experience a more responsive key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it potentially more suitable for gamers who favor quicker response times. Conversely, the Outemu Brown, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying and deep keystroke, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding responsiveness versus tactile depth.
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 Brown comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White V2 switches deliver a distinct and satisfying auditory experience, characterized by a sharp click that resonates clearly with each keystroke. This pronounced sound is a key feature for those who enjoy an audible confirmation of their inputs, making typing feel engaging and impactful. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switches are known for their quieter operation, lacking the pronounced click of the Box White V2. Instead, they produce a muted yet satisfying sound that is subtle, making them better suited for environments where noise might be a concern. However, it's important to note that the sound you experience from both switches can vary based on the keyboard board construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switches provide a tactile sensation characterized by a noticeable bump combined with that crisp click, offering a definite point of actuation that typists often find satisfying. This feedback contributes to a dynamic typing experience, allowing users to feel when their keypresses register. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switches provide a different tactile experience, emphasizing a smooth feel with a lighter tactile bump. While they do not have the prominent click of the Box White V2, the Browns still offer enough feedback to give users a sense of engagement without being overly pronounced, making them a great choice for those who prefer a more subdued tactile response.
In summary, both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Brown switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences catered to different preferences. The Box White V2 is ideal for users who enjoy loud, tactile feedback with a sharp click, making it excellent for typing and gaming scenarios where auditory confirmation of keystrokes is a bonus. In contrast, the Outemu Brown is perfect for those who seek a versatile switch that provides a tactile feel without the accompanying sound of a click, which suits quieter environments. Ultimately, your choice should be guided by your personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches can deliver satisfying results tailored to their respective audiences.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between Kailh Box White V2 and Outemu Brown switches largely depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you relish a distinctly audible click and enjoy crisp tactile feedback, the Kailh Box White V2 is an excellent option, especially for a more lively typing experience. Its lighter actuation force of 50 grams makes it less straining on your fingers, which can be beneficial for long typing sessions. However, keep in mind that the pronounced sound and tactile nature of the Box White V2 may not be suitable if you work in a quiet office setting or share your space with others who may be disturbed by the noise. On the other hand, if you prefer a more understated typing experience with a softer sound profile, the Outemu Brown would be your best bet. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams, it provides a satisfying but less intense tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who want a balance between responsiveness and subtlety. This can be especially appealing for gaming or in shared spaces where noise is a concern. Ultimately, your choice comes down to whether you prioritize an engaging auditory and tactile feedback experience or a more muted, versatile feel that still offers the benefits of tactile switches.
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