Kailh Box White vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Purple 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, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Purple, a tactile switch. The Box White is favored for its maximum audio feedback, offering a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility while typing. On the other hand, the Purple switch doesn't have specific standout features noted, but is appreciated for its tactile feedback. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
N/A
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
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and Outemu Purple switches are quite similar in terms of their construction. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches use nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While the top and bottom housings may differ in material, the overall sound profile of the switches is impacted by the combination of these materials.
One key difference between the Kailh Box White and Outemu Purple switches lies in the nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches without this material. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when the switches are pressed. Despite this difference, both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, which contributes to the sharp and crisp sound profile that is characteristic of these switches. This combination of materials in the top and bottom housings allows for a balanced sound experience that is influenced by each material's unique properties.
In terms of performance, the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and Outemu Purple switches play a vital role in shaping the overall typing experience. While the polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound profile that is enhanced by RGB lighting, the nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound to the switches. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings results in a dynamic typing experience where the impact of each material can be felt and heard differently. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Kailh Box White or Outemu Purple switches, you can expect a satisfying typing experience that combines the best of both worlds in terms of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key press. However, the Box White has a bottom out force of 60 grams, slightly heavier than the Outemu Purple switch which has an unknown bottom out force. The Box White offers a medium weight feel when fully pressed, while the Purple's weight remains unspecified. Some users may prefer the Box White for its heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience, while others may lean towards the Outemu Purple for a potentially lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force weights.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Purple tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box White being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Box White for its quicker response times due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Purple switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and key 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 Purple 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 qualities, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Purple tactile switch is unavailable. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, 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 Purple switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch that provides maximum audio feedback with a sharp and crisp sound profile, as well as a polished and smooth typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a different feel and sound profile, it is recommended to further research and possibly try out the Outemu Purple switch to see if it meets your preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers maximum audio feedback and a crisp, high-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the way to go. The Box White switch provides a tactile feedback similar to crushing autumn leaves, making typing a more immersive experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and are not too concerned about sound feedback, the Outemu Purple tactile switch might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for auditory and tactile feedback when typing.
Mentioned in this article
