Kailh Box White V2 vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf each offer distinct sensations and auditory experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Kailh Box White V2 switches are celebrated for their sharp tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, making them a favorite for those who enjoy a pronounced typing experience that enhances both productivity and enjoyment. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf switches provide a tactile feel without the extra click sound, appealing to users who prefer a quieter workspace while still enjoying the satisfying bump that signals a keypress. While the Box White V2 may be ideal for those who thrive on a highly responsive and engaging typing experience, the Maple Leaf's subtler feedback may cater to individuals seeking a balance between performance and minimal noise. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Outemu Maple Leaf keyboard switches differ significantly in their top housing materials, which results in distinct acoustic profiles when typing. The Box White V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for users who favor a more pronounced auditory feedback with RGB lighting, as the clear nature of polycarbonate allows light to diffuse effectively, enhancing the visual aesthetic of the keyboard. In contrast, the Maple Leaf employs a nylon top housing, a classic material that absorbs more sound due to its softer composition. Consequently, this results in a deeper and rounder sound profile, which some users may find more comfortable and satisfying during prolonged typing sessions. Thus, the choice of top housing greatly influences the auditory experience of each switch.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Kailh Box White V2 and Outemu Maple Leaf use nylon, which offers similar acoustic properties. This commonality allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile that tends to dominate the feel and sound at the bottom-out point of the keystroke. The nylon's ability to absorb sound contributes to a more muted and rounded auditory experience, ensuring that even amidst the top housing's differing characteristics, the overall tactile and acoustic sensations can maintain a level of similarity. This shared use of nylon for the bottom housing creates a blending effect wherein both switches can deliver a satisfying keystroke, although they may resonate differently based on the choice of top housing.
Overall, the contrasting materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf create a varied overall typing experience, combining the crispness of polycarbonate with the warmth of nylon in the former, while the latter fuses soft nylon for both top and bottom, promoting a fuller acoustic quality. Users who prioritize a brighter sound profile may gravitate toward the Box White V2, whereas those who prefer richer and more subdued acoustics might find the Maple Leaf more appealing. Regardless of the differences, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches exhibit a degree of sound absorption, allowing for a cohesive typing experience within each respective design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, distinct differences arise. The Box White V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions and gaming, as it reduces fatigue over time. In contrast, the Maple Leaf switch is notably heavier, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This increased resistance provides a more substantial typing experience that some users prefer. Therefore, while the Box White V2 offers a lighter touch that may benefit those seeking comfort in prolonged use, the Maple Leaf switch appeals to users who enjoy a firmer keypress. Overall, for those who value a lighter switch for comfort, the Kailh Box White V2 would be a better choice, whereas the Outemu Maple Leaf serves those who favor a more tactile push during typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, a notable difference in travel distance becomes evident. The Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Maple Leaf has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive feel, the Maple Leaf might be more to your liking with its shorter actuation distance. However, for those who prefer a deeper, more substantial press, the Box White V2 offers a longer travel distance that can provide a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the responsiveness versus the depth of the keypress.
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 Maple Leaf 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 the realm of sound, the Kailh Box White V2 switches deliver a crisp, pronounced click that is satisfying and attention-grabbing. This audible feedback is particularly appealing to users who enjoy a classic typewriter-like experience with every keystroke, making it an ideal choice for typists and gamers alike who thrive on auditory cues. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch lacks defined sound characteristics, making its acoustic profile less distinct. Without a signature auditory presence, it may not provide the same joyful auditory feedback that some users seek in their mechanical keyboard experience.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 is known for its tactile feedback that is both pronounced and enjoyable, offering a responsive experience that reinforces the user's typing rhythm. This tactile bump makes it easier to gauge actuation without bottoming out, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch's feel characteristics are not explicitly defined, leaving some uncertainty about its tactile qualities. However, depending on the context, it may offer a different tactile sensation that caters to a more subtle touch preference.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White V2 excels in sound with its distinctive click and offers a defined tactile feedback that many users appreciate, making it a well-rounded choice for those who favor both auditory and tactile engagement. Conversely, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch falls short in sound clarity and has undefined tactile characteristics, leaving potential users curious about its performance. Together, these switches cater to different preferences, with the Box White V2 appealing to those who enjoy a robust clicky experience, while the Maple Leaf may attract users seeking something less defined.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light keypress and appreciate the satisfying auditory feedback of a clicky switch, the Kailh Box White V2 will likely suit you well. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for rapid typing and gaming, where speed and precision are essential. The crisp tactile response and pronounced click sound can enhance your typing experience, making it a great fit for those who thrive on feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a sturdier feel with a moderate resistance, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch might be more appealing. With a heavier 65-gram bottom-out force, it offers a tactile experience that can feel more robust and satisfying for users who enjoy a firmer keypress. While the Maple Leaf does not feature the same level of auditory feedback, its smoothness in action makes it an excellent choice for longer typing sessions without the distraction of clicks. In summary, consider your typing habits and whether you prioritize auditory feedback and lightness or prefer a heavier, more tactile experience without clicks when making your decision.
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