Kailh Box White V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to the desired typing experience, and two popular options worth considering are the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Black. The Box White V2 is distinguished by its clicky nature, delivering a satisfying tactile bump and a pronounced click sound with every keystroke, making it an excellent choice for typists and gamers who enjoy auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black is a linear switch, offering a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile feedback or audible click, which can appeal to users who prioritize a quieter typing experience and swift key presses, such as in gaming scenarios. Both switches cater to different preferences, making them ideal for different types of users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Dustproof Black both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which grants them a distinctive sound signature. The polycarbonate material is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, owing to its relatively stiff nature. This stiffness ensures a clear and resonant auditory experience when keys are actuated. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it particularly suitable for switches with RGB lighting, as it effectively transmits light, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. Therefore, users who favor a bright, audible typing experience with vibrant backlighting will appreciate the similarities in this aspect of both switches.
In contrast to the shared polycarbonate top housings, the two models differ in their bottom housing materials, both of which utilize nylon. Nylon is recognized for its softer characteristics, contributing to a deeper, fuller sound profile when the keys are pressed. This quality allows for a more muffled and rounded sound, as the softer plastic attenuates the sound waves compared to harder materials. Since both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Black employ nylon in their bottom housings, users can expect a harmonious blend of sound signatures: the crispness from the top housing and the richness from the bottom housing, ensuring that the typing experience remains both engaging and satisfying.
Collectively, the combination of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing creates a well-balanced auditory output across both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Black. When pressing down on either switch, users will experience the clarity brought by the polycarbonate as they bottom out, while the nylon will absorb and enhance the sound signature, giving a pleasing roundness to the notes produced upon release. The synergy between the top and bottom housing materials enhances the overall tactile feedback and sound profile, yielding a typing experience that is enjoyable and consistent across both switch types. Thus, even with differing bottom materials, the signature traits of each switch will align well during use, allowing for similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Box White V2 features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, along with a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black demands a significantly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, catering to those who favor a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 is the lighter option, while the Outemu Dustproof Black is heavier, aligning with different preferences for typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, a clear distinction emerges: the Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the Outemu Dustproof Black provides a more traditional and deeper keystroke, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Kailh Box White V2 may be more suited for gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference: go for the Kailh Box White V2 if you favor quicker, more responsive keypresses, or opt for the Outemu Dustproof Black if you appreciate a deeper, more articulated keystroke.
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 Dustproof Black 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
The Kailh Box White V2 switches produce a distinct and satisfying sound profile, characterized by a sharp, audible click that occurs at the actuation point. This clicky noise is pleasing to many users who enjoy the auditory feedback while typing or gaming, making it a preferred choice for those who appreciate a more traditional typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black switches are linear switches, which means they offer little to no sound during their operation. The absence of a click or any significant noise leads to a quieter typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a stealthier approach—ideal for shared workspaces or late-night use where minimizing sound is essential.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switches deliver a notable tactile feedback combined with their click, providing a significant sensation upon actuation that helps typists become more aware of their key presses. This tactile response can enhance accuracy and typing speed for those who thrive on feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black switches offer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile bump or click, which can be preferred by gamers and users who value swift key presses without the distractions of feedback. This linear feel can also be advantageous for typing at high speeds, as the lack of resistance lets fingers glide effortlessly across the switches.
In summary, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. The Box White V2 offers a crisp click and tactile feedback that can make typing a more engaging experience, while the Dustproof Black provides a smooth, quieter approach suitable for those who favor speed and subtlety. Both switches cater to different typing styles and environments, allowing users to select based on what resonates more with their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Kailh Box White V2 clicky switches and Outemu Dustproof Black linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and the intended use of your keyboard. If you enjoy tactile feedback and an audible click that enhances your typing experience, the Box White V2 is an excellent option, especially for typing enthusiasts or those who appreciate the satisfying sound and feel of each keystroke. With a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, these switches are ideal for prolonged typing sessions, as they reduce finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with increased resistance, the Outemu Dustproof Black, with its heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, is better suited for gaming or fast-paced tasks. These linear switches provide a consistent key press without the clicky sound, allowing for stealthier operation, which can be important in shared environments or quieter settings. Ultimately, consider what experience you value most in your keyboard; whether it’s the tactile and auditory feedback of the Box White V2 or the smooth, silent operation of the Dustproof Black.
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