Kailh Box White V2 vs. Outemu Milk Blue

Overview

When choosing a clicky mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Milk Blue both offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its sharp tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, creating an engaging typing experience that many typists and gamers appreciate. Its reliable actuation and durability make it an excellent choice for those seeking a robust switch that can withstand heavy use. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue, while also a clicky switch, is often recognized for its smoother keystrokes and a slightly different sound profile, appealing to users who might prefer a more refined audio experience without sacrificing tactile response. Both switches present compelling reasons to choose them, whether it's the Box White's precision and feedback or the Milk Blue's smoother feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

Outemu Milk Blue Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When analyzing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Milk Blue, it is evident that both switches share similarities in terms of their top housings, as both utilize polycarbonate. This similarity results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for each switch, attributed to the inherent stiffness of polycarbonate. Such material choice not only contributes to clear resonance but also supports the aesthetic appeal due to its translucency, making it particularly favorable for setups that include RGB lighting. Thus, users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing on either switch, especially in the top-out sound created when releasing a key.

On the flip side, the bottom housings for both switches are made of nylon, which brings a contrasting quality to the overall sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and therefore results in a deeper, fuller sound experience when typing. This inherent difference means that while the top housing of both switches creates a brighter tonal quality, the nylon bottom housing significantly dampens and softens the feedback felt during bottoming out. Therefore, while top-out sounds might mirror each other due to the use of polycarbonate, the bottom-out experience varies due to the nylon's ability to mellow the sound.

Understanding these distinctions allows keyboard enthusiasts to appreciate how the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both the Kailh Box White V2 and Outemu Milk Blue creates a balanced sound profile. Users will enjoy the crispness from the polycarbonate tops, while the nylon bottoms provide a warmer, more rounded finish. Consequently, even though the top and bottom housings are made from different materials, the complementary characteristics work in tandem to create a versatile typing experience. Overall, enthusiasts can anticipate a satisfying blend of sonic qualities from both switches, whether they opt for the Box White V2 or the Milk Blue.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Box White V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer longer typing sessions and a less straining experience. In contrast, the Milk Blue requires a slightly stronger actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel. However, the bottom out force for the Milk Blue switch is unspecified, which means we cannot directly compare this aspect with the Box White V2’s bottom out force of 50 grams. With the Box White V2 being the lighter option overall, it allows for extended use without fatigue, while the heavier actuation found in the Milk Blue may cater to typists who seek more tactile feedback. Overall, for users seeking a balance of comfort and sturdiness, the Box White V2 is preferable, whereas those who favor a firmer keypress may lean towards the Milk Blue switch, despite the lack of bottom out force data.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, the Kailh Box White V2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue measures at 4 mm. This means that the Box White V2 provides a more responsive feel for those who favor quicker key presses, making it an attractive option for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Milk Blue, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a deeper, more substantial typing experience that feels less abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for key feedback and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Box White V2 switch is characterized by its sharp, pronounced click that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy audible confirmation while typing. The click sound is often described as crisp and bright, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue switch does not have specific sound profiles widely recognized, which may lead to variability in audio feedback depending on the keyboard and keycap combination used with it. Therefore, if you prefer a distinct audio experience, the Box White V2 stands out while the Milk Blue may offer a quieter alternative that could variably match personal preference.

When it comes to feel, the Box White V2 switch is known for its firm yet satisfying tactile bump that occurs at the actuation point, providing a precise typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. The tactile feedback enhances typing accuracy and engagement. The feel of the Outemu Milk Blue switch, however, is less defined in comparison, leaving a gap in the tactile experience it provides. Consequently, users might find the Milk Blue switch to be somewhat less engaging in terms of feedback, leading to a different typing experience that may not resonate as strongly with those who enjoy pronounced tactile responses.

Overall, while the Kailh Box White V2 switch presents a well-rounded auditory and tactile experience, delivering a combination of crisp sound and satisfying feedback, the Outemu Milk Blue lacks the clarity in sound and defined tactile feel that some users may seek. If you prefer a clicky switch with prominent feedback, the Box White V2 would likely be your best choice. Otherwise, if you're open to a less defined experience with the potential for a quieter operation, the Milk Blue might serve your needs, albeit with variable outcomes depending on your keyboard and keycap choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a lighter switch with a responsive tactile feel and a distinct click sound, the Kailh Box White V2 is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it easier to type quickly, reducing fatigue over long typing sessions, and the crisp feedback can enhance your overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a more robust tactile feedback and a different auditory experience, you may want to consider the Outemu Milk Blue switch, which might offer a unique feel and sound profile that suits your typing style better. Be sure to think about how each switch feels under your fingers and how the sound might affect your workspace environment. Ultimately, testing both switches, if possible, will help you make an informed decision tailored to your needs, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience is satisfying and effective.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Milk Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more