Kailh Box White vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch. The Box White switch is favored by those who seek maximum audio feedback, with a distinctive "stepping on autumn leaves" sound and a noticeable tactile bump during typing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is known for its silent operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. While the Box White switch is resonant, high-pitched, crunchy, and polished, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch lacks any specific characteristics. 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Both the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material between these two switches suggest that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when using either switch.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean utilize nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound quality. This shared aspect in housing materials between the two switches suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch.
When looking at the overall impact of the different housing materials used in the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, it becomes clear that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Despite these differences, users can expect a balanced typing experience with both switches thanks to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housings.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch reveals some key differences. The Box White has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 45 grams, making the Box White slightly easier to press for triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Box White requires 60 grams of force, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean demands 65 grams, giving the Dustproof Silent Ocean a heavier bottom out force. This means that while the Dustproof Silent Ocean may feel slightly lighter to type on initially, it provides a more substantial typing experience when fully pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch. This means that the Box White has a slightly longer distance for key presses compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. For those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing, the Box White may be the better option. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. In terms of travel distance, the Box White is longer, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean is shorter, catering to different preferences.
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 Dustproof Silent Ocean 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 and high-pitched characteristics, providing a sharp and crisp sound experience akin to stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, there is no information available on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch. Depending on personal preference, if you seek a keyboard switch with a rich and immersive auditory feedback, the Box White may be the preferred choice based on the available information.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box White is described as having a polished finish, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch. If a polished and sleek typing experience is desired, the Box White switch may be the better option based on the data provided.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is characterized by a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, along with a polished feel that offers smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is limited information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch. Ultimately, personal preference and testing out the switches in person will provide the best insight into which switch would be the ideal choice for an individual's typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box White clicky switch or the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy maximum audio feedback and a tactile feel with a medium bottom out force, the Box White switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a silent typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is the better option. Consider the sound profile and feel that best suits your typing style and environment when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the key is to choose the switch that enhances your typing experience and meets your specific preferences.
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