Kailh Box White vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cream Blue mechanical keyboard switches, both being clicky switches, they each offer unique characteristics to consider. The Box White switch is favored by those who seek maximum audio feedback, providing a distinctive "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accentuated tactility while typing. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch does not have a specific standout feature but is known for its clicky sound. The Box White is categorized as 'Resonant', 'High-pitched', 'Crunchy', 'Polished', while the Cream Blue does not fall into any specific categories. If you are looking for a switch with pronounced audio feedback, the Box White may be the better choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cream Blue, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on either switch will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. However, since the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, users may notice slight differences in the typing experience between the two switches based on the bottom housing material.
In terms of the top housing material, the Kailh Box White features a polycarbonate top housing while the Outemu Cream Blue features a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Cream Blue absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving users a different auditory experience while typing. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it suitable for switches intended for RGB lighting, offering an added aesthetic appeal.
Overall, while both the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cream Blue utilize nylon for their bottom housing, they differ in their top housing materials. This contrast leads to differences in the sound profiles they produce, with the Box White offering a sharper and clearer sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, and the Cream Blue providing a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the sound and feel desired during typing.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch reveals some differences. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the Cream Blue also has an actuation force of 50 grams, but a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. This difference means that the Cream Blue will require more force to fully press a key compared to the Box White. However, both switches have the same actuation force, so users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience for their specific needs.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter compared to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The Box White provides a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Cream Blue offers a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76, whereas the Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy typing experience, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This switch provides maximum audio feedback with a clean and sharp sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy an immersive auditory experience. In contrast, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is not available, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, both switches will deliver a satisfying clicking sound that enhances the overall typing experience, especially when paired with a compatible keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box White is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This polished surface reduces friction and provides a sleek key travel, making typing on this switch a comfortable and enjoyable task. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available on the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue switch. However, it can be assumed that as another clicky switch, it will offer a tactile bump and satisfying click during keystrokes similar to the Box White.
Overall, both the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offer a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. While each switch may have its unique characteristics, such as the polished feel of the Box White and the unknown qualities of the Cream Blue, both switches are sure to provide an enjoyable typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with both options offering a great introduction to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box White clicky switch or the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, you should opt for the Box White if you prioritize a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile, and a polished feel for a smooth typing experience with maximum audio feedback. On the other hand, you should go for the Cream Blue if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Happy typing!
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