Kailh Box White vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options for those seeking a clicky typing experience are the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Phoenix. The Kailh Box White is renowned for its maximum audio feedback, offering a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and an enhanced tactility while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix stands out with its unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. While both switches share the qualities of being crunchy and polished, each has its own distinct characteristics. However, let's delve deeper into their specifics so that you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the Outemu Phoenix share many similarities in terms of their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual appeal to the switches.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Box White features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This can be a preference for individuals who favor a softer typing experience or those who prioritize a quieter keyboard.
When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing's qualities will be evident, as it greatly influences the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has a stronger impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches offer similar characteristics due to their polycarbonate top housings, the choice of housing material for the bottom significantly affects the typing experience and sound produced.
In summary, the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Phoenix share a common use of polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar sharp and resonant sound profile. However, their bottom housings differ, with the Box White utilizing nylon for a deeper sound and the Phoenix sticking to polycarbonate for a potentially higher-pitched sound. Understanding the impact of each housing material on the typing experience can help individuals choose the switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it's clear that both switches fall into the medium range. The Kailh Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the exact actuation force of the Outemu Phoenix is unknown but its bottom out force is 62 grams. Therefore, in terms of weight, both switches can be considered similar as they require a similar amount of force to trigger a keystroke and to reach the bottom of the switch.
Considerations of weight are important as it can impact the typing experience in various ways. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, which is beneficial for those who frequently type for extended periods at work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, switches with heavier forces are more suitable.
In summary, while the Kailh Box White and Outemu Phoenix switches have slightly different bottom out forces, they both provide a similar level of actuation force. Therefore, those seeking a medium weight switch can expect similar results from both options. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch have different travel distances. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Phoenix has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In terms of comparison, the Box White has a slightly longer travel distance than the Phoenix. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix switch. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Box White switch more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White switch is well-known for its resonant and high-pitched sound profile. When typing on these switches, users can expect a clean and sharp sound that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch also offers a similar crunchy sound profile, which is commonly associated with clicky switches. Both switches provide an immersive auditory experience that adds a satisfying element to typing. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Phoenix feature a polished finish. This indicates that these switches have a smooth and refined surface, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The polished feel of the switches contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a crunchy sound profile that resembles stepping on crisp leaves and a polished feel that ensures smooth key travel. Therefore, if you are seeking maximum audio feedback and a satisfying tactile experience, either switch will offer similar results. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and other factors, such as availability and compatibility with your specific keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, both the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer unique characteristics that may appeal to different individuals based on their preferences. If you are someone who desires maximum audio feedback and appreciates a "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility, then the Box White switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for the most unique clicky switch available today, with a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile, then the Phoenix switch would be more fitting.
In terms of sound, both switches offer a crunchy experience associated with clicky switches, but the Box White switch also offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Box White switch would be the preferable option.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a polished and smooth finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Therefore, if you prioritize a polished feel, both switches would be suitable options for you.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for audio feedback and typing experience. Consider the descriptions and characteristics provided to make an informed decision based on the sound and feel that best suits your preferences.
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