Kailh Box White vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Red 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 Red offer distinct typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The Box White is a clicky switch that is perfect for those who value maximum audio feedback, providing a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is a linear switch that offers a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience without any tactile feedback. If you're someone who enjoys a more resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy typing experience, the Box White may be the ideal choice for you. However, for those who prefer a polished and seamless typing experience without any additional noise, the Outemu Red could be more suitable. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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 Red, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate lends itself to a clear and resonant sound output, making it an ideal material for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a similar auditory experience from both switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Box White incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound output. On the other hand, the Outemu Red also features nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a deeper sound profile. Despite this slight difference, users can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience from both switches thanks to their common use of nylon for the bottom housing.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will be more pronounced when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Kailh Box White and Outemu Red may vary in their bottom housing material, the overall typing experience offered by both switches remains comparable due to the shared polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch reveals some differences worth noting. The Box White has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Red's 46 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Red requires 62 grams, which is heavier than the Box White's 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Outemu Red switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Kailh Box White. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is clear that the Box White has a shorter travel distance at 3.6 mm compared to the Red's 4 mm. This means that the Box White switch will require less distance for actuation, potentially providing a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch with a longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying keystroke for individuals who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the Box White offering a faster response and the longer travel distance of the Outemu Red providing a more substantial key press experience.
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 Red 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
The Kailh Box White clicky switch is praised for its resonant and high-pitched sound profile, offering a satisfying auditory experience reminiscent of crunching autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch's sound qualities are unknown, but it is important to note that sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Box White is known for its polished finish, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and seamless key travel. The Outemu Red's feel characteristics are not provided, leaving us unsure about its tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
While the sound and feel qualities of the Kailh Box White clicky switch are well-documented and highly regarded, the information available for the Outemu Red linear switch is lacking. In the absence of a direct comparison, it is difficult to determine how the two switches stack up against each other in terms of sound and feel. However, based on the provided descriptions, users can expect crisp and sharp sound with an accentuated tactility from the Box White, while the Red's attributes remain unknown. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers maximum audio feedback with a crunchy sound profile and accented tactility, then the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and refined typing experience with no auditory feedback, then the Outemu Red linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will come down to whether you prioritize sound and tactility or a silent and smooth typing experience. Make sure to consider your personal preferences and typing style when making your decision.
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