Kailh Box White V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue stand out as popular clicky options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and a satisfying audible click, making it an excellent choice for typists who appreciate a more pronounced response while they type. Additionally, its design promises durability and dust resistance, enhancing longevity. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue, while also a clicky switch, focuses on providing a solid typing experience with an emphasis on being dustproof, which may appeal to users in environments where dust accumulation can be a concern. Both switches offer the engaging click sound that many gamers and typists enjoy, yet their construction and user experience can differ significantly. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue both feature polycarbonate top housings, leading to similar acoustic characteristics that enhance the typing experience. Polycarbonate is known for imparting a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it an excellent choice for switch tops. This stiffer plastic allows for clear sound resonance, ensuring that keystrokes produce a distinct and pronounced auditory feedback. Additionally, the translucence of polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through effectively, potentially enhancing the visual aesthetics of a mechanical keyboard.

In contrast, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, creating a distinct difference in their acoustic profiles. Nylon, being a softer material, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. It absorbs sound better than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder audio experience. This characteristic is particularly pronounced when bottoming out a key, as the nylon’s ability to dampen vibrations ensures that the impact sound is less sharp and more muted compared to the top’s polycarbonate housing. Thus, while both switches share the same top housing material, their bottom materials provide a contrasting auditory experience that impacts how they sound and feel during use.

Ultimately, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue offer a balanced sound profile through their combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms. While the polycarbonate contributes clarity and brightness to the sound when releasing a key, the nylon serves to soften and deepen the feedback when a key is pressed down. This synergy allows typists to enjoy both the clear acoustic feedback of the polycarbonate top and the muted undertones from the nylon bottom, making both switches appealing options for those seeking a well-rounded typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to distinct typing preferences. The Box White V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a less demanding typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue comes with a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a more substantial bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer feel while typing. Thus, while both switches are clicky, the Box White V2 is the lighter option, fostering effortless keystrokes, whereas the Dustproof Blue provides a heavier resistance for a more pronounced typing experience. The disparity in actuation and bottom out forces suggests that users looking for a more gentle touch should opt for the Box White V2, while those who appreciate a stronger push should lean towards the Dustproof Blue.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, the difference is clear. The Box White V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Blue measures 4 mm. This means the Dustproof Blue offers a longer travel distance, aligning with the traditional feel that some typists and gamers might prefer for its deeper actuation. In contrast, the Box White V2's shorter travel distance can provide a more responsive touch, which may be advantageous for gamers looking for quicker key presses. Ultimately, if you gravitate towards a more abrupt feel and faster response times, the Kailh Box White V2 would be the better option, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Blue might satisfy those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White V2 switch is characterized by a pronounced and satisfying click that occurs with each keystroke, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. This crisp sound contributes to a lively typing experience, enhancing the overall satisfaction of using the keyboard. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch does not have enough information on its sound profile, which leaves room for uncertainty. However, generally, blue switches are known for their distinct clicks as well, suggesting that while the Dustproof Blue might share a similar clicky nature, the specific sound characteristics may vary.

Regarding feel, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a firm tactile bump that provides a clear indication of actuation, allowing for precise typing with a feedback that many users appreciate. The tactile nature of these switches is complemented by the audible click, making it very engaging for typists who prefer a more interactive experience. In comparison, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is less documented, but it is typically expected to provide a similar tactile feedback due to its classification as a blue mechanical switch. This means both switches likely have a comparable actuation sensation, though specific nuances in feedback may differ.

In conclusion, both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches cater to users who enjoy clicky feedback, with the Box White V2 standing out for its well-documented sound and tactile feel. While the Dustproof Blue lacks detailed information, users can reasonably expect a similar clicky experience given its switch type. Ultimately, personal preference and experience with each switch will be key in determining which best suits individual typing styles and sound preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switches largely depends on your preferences for tactile feedback, actuation force, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a lighter key feel and enjoy a pronounced, crisp click when typing, the Kailh Box White V2 would be the better choice for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it suitable for extended typing sessions, especially if you're someone who tends to type quickly or lightly. On the other hand, if you find comfort in a more substantial key press and enjoy a slightly heavier tactile experience, the Outemu Dustproof Blue, with its 65-gram bottom-out force, may suit you better. While the Dustproof Blue does not carry the same reputation, it still offers a solid typing experience, particularly if you engage in gaming or tasks that demand more deliberate keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and whether you value a lighter clicky key or a heavier, more controlled key feel.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more