Kailh Box White vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for consideration are the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Crystal Brown. The Box White switch is a clicky switch, renowned for its maximum audio feedback and tactile feel, offering a "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility while typing. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch is a tactile switch, known for its smooth and responsive keystrokes without the audible click. While the Box White switch may appeal to those who enjoy a crunchy, high-pitched feedback, the Crystal Brown switch may be preferred by those who prioritize a comfortable typing experience without the noise. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Crystal Brown, it is notable that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate adds an aesthetic appeal to the switches, showcasing their inner mechanisms.
On the other hand, the differences in the bottom housing material become apparent when comparing the Box White's nylon bottom housing with the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the choice of bottom housing material affects the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Crystal Brown leads to a well-balanced switch with unique characteristics. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for distinct qualities to be felt when typing on these switches. Whether it's the sharpness and clarity of the polycarbonate top housing or the deeper sound profile of the nylon bottom housing, both switches offer a fulfilling typing experience with their own individual charm.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch are both medium in terms of overall weight. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly lighter. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Crystal Brown for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Box White for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the difference in weight between the two switches may not be significant enough to drastically alter the typing experience, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall force and feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Crystal Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box White. The shorter travel distance of the Box White may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Crystal Brown provides a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance in mechanical keyboards.
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 Crystal Brown 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 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 immersive typing sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, so if you're looking for a switch with a distinct and satisfying clicky sound, the Box White may be the better choice.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished finish can enhance the overall feel of the switch and make typing more enjoyable. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is unknown, so for those who prioritize a polished and sleek typing experience, the Box White may be the preferred option.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides maximum audio feedback with a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile, as well as a polished and refined typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you are interested in the Outemu Crystal Brown switch but value similar subjective qualities, you may want to explore other tactile switches with known sound and feel profiles to find the best match for your typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for maximum audio feedback and love the crisp, sharp sound of typing, then the Box White switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter typing feel with a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience, then the Crystal Brown switch might be more suitable for you. Consider your preference for sound and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice is yours based on your personal typing preferences.
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