Kailh Box White vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Silent Ocean stand out as popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Box White switch is a clicky switch that delivers maximum audio feedback, offering a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and a noticeable tactile bump while typing. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switch is a linear switch that provides a smooth and quiet typing experience without any auditory feedback. If you prefer a loud and tactile typing experience, the Box White switch may be the way to go. However, if you value a silent and smooth typing experience, the Silent Ocean switch could be more appealing. 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
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 the Outemu Silent Ocean switches share similar qualities when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, giving them a visually appealing aesthetic.
However, the differences between the two switches lie in their nylon bottom housing. The Box White uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a typing experience that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with the deep and full sound profile characteristic of nylon material.
Overall, the qualities of the housing materials in each switch will impact the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite using different materials for their bottom housing, both the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches offer a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon for a satisfying sound profile.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, we can see some differences in weight. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the Box White slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, but lighter in bottom out force compared to the Silent Ocean. The Box White provides a medium typing experience, while the Silent Ocean offers a medium-heavy feel. Both switches fall within the medium range, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing comfort and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch measures in at 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch comes in slightly longer at 4 mm. The Box White offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, with the Silent Ocean being on the more traditional end of the spectrum. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
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 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 offers a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy typing experience, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. The auditory feedback is sharp and clean, providing an immersive sound profile for those who enjoy a more pronounced click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, indicating a lack of audible feedback or noise during typing. This makes the Silent Ocean a suitable option for those looking for a quieter typing experience without the clicky sound of the Box White switch.
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. This polished finish enhances the overall typing feel, making it a preferred choice for users who appreciate a sleek and comfortable typing sensation. Unfortunately, there is no specific information provided about the feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch, making it difficult to directly compare to the polished feel of the Box White switch.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch excels in providing a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile along with a polished and smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch offers a silent typing experience without specific information on sound or feel. Ultimately, if you are looking for a clicky switch with audible feedback and a polished typing feel, the Box White switch would be the recommended choice. However, if you prefer a silent typing experience without any specific sound or feel preferences, the Silent Ocean switch may be a suitable option for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a crisp, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile with a satisfying tactile feedback, the Box White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Silent Ocean linear switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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