Kailh Box White vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and Outemu Cream Yellow offer distinct typing experiences. The Box White is a clicky switch that provides maximum audio feedback with a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility while typing. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience, although there is limited information available about its specific characteristics. If you prioritize auditory and tactile feedback, the Box White may be the ideal choice for you. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches both utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. The nylon material's softness allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound that is appreciated by many keyboard enthusiasts. However, the top housing materials differ between the two switches, with the Box White featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Cream Yellow has a nylon top housing.
The polycarbonate top housing of the Kailh Box White creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when compared to the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound that is especially useful if RGB lighting is a desired feature. In contrast, the softer nylon top housing of the Cream Yellow absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on the switch. While both materials have their own unique benefits, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic considerations.
When it comes to the feel and sound of keystrokes, the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. The choice of nylon for both the Kailh Box White and Outemu Cream Yellow's bottom housing ensures a consistent depth and fullness to the sound profile. However, the difference in the top housing materials introduces a contrast in the clarity and sharpness of the sound produced. Whether you prefer the crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Box White or the deeper sound of nylon in the Cream Yellow, both switches offer distinctive characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch with an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium resistance level. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Cream Yellow switch may be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Box White switch offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired level of actuation force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Box White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. Both options fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box White being on the longer side and the Cream Yellow on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the Box White for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback, while those looking for a faster response time may lean towards the Cream Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile, resembling the sound of stepping on autumn leaves. This switch provides a clean and sharp auditory experience, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced click with each key press. Conversely, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is unavailable, making it difficult to make a direct comparison between the two switches in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box White is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished finish enhances the overall tactile feedback and typing comfort for users. Unfortunately, details on the tactile feel of the Outemu Cream Yellow switch are not provided, preventing a direct comparison of the tactile experience between the two switches.
In conclusion, when considering the subjective qualities of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is evident that the Box White excels in providing a distinct and accentuated clicky sound with a polished feel for a tactile typing experience. While information on the Cream Yellow switch is lacking, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, and it is recommended to try out both to determine which aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box White clicky switch or the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it really comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clicky switch with a higher-pitched, crisp sound profile and an accented tactility, the Box White may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a more polished feel, the Cream Yellow could be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what typing experience you prefer and what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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