Kailh Box White vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Gold 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 Gold both fall under the clicky switch category, providing that satisfying click with each keystroke. The Box White is favored by those who appreciate maximum audio feedback, likening the sound to "stepping on autumn leaves" and enjoying the accented tactility it offers. On the other hand, the Gold switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but delivers a reliable clicky experience. If you're looking for a switch that provides a unique sound and tactile feel, the Box White may be the way to go. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Gold, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. With both switches sharing this top housing material, users can expect similar sound characteristics and performance in terms of key sound when pressed.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Box White and the Outemu Gold utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Even though both switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housing, users can anticipate differences in sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The impact of the bottom housing will be more noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Gold share similarities in their housing materials with both utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, there are differences in sound profiles and typing experiences. The stiffer polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper sound, while the softer nylon in the bottom housing produces a deeper sound. Users looking for a switch with a clear and resonant sound may prefer the Box White, while those seeking a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Outemu Gold. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch are slightly different. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Gold has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equal in that aspect. The Box White is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force compared to the Gold, making it a better choice for those who prefer a firmer typing experience. However, both switches fall under the medium weight category, offering a balance between a light touch for extended periods of typing and a more substantial feel for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the user's personal preference for actuation force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In comparison, the Box White has a shorter travel distance than the Gold. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Box White with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Outemu Gold. Both switches offer clicky feedback, but the difference in travel distance can impact the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would 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 Gold 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 qualities, offering a clean and sharp sound profile that some compare to the sound of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, based on the information provided, it is likely that the Box White will provide a more distinctive and immersive auditory experience compared to the Gold switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Gold switch. It is possible that the Box White switch may offer a more premium and comfortable typing experience compared to the Gold switch based on the available information.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch stands out for its resonant sound profile and polished feel, offering a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback for those who enjoy clicky switches. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Gold clicky switch are unknown, it is likely that the Box White switch may provide a more refined and immersive typing experience overall. For similar results in terms of sound and feel, going with the Kailh Box White switch may be a reliable choice for newcomers looking for a clicky mechanical keyboard switch with a unique auditory and tactile experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, you should consider your preference for maximum audio feedback and a crunchy tactile feel. If you enjoy a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile and a polished typing experience, the Box White switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique clicky sound and tactile feel, the Gold switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, so choosing between them depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
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