Kailh Box White vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch and unsure of which one to choose? Allow us to introduce you to two options to consider: the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Box White is a clicky switch that provides maximum audio feedback, giving you a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch as you type. It also offers a pronounced tactility, adding an enjoyable feel to your keystrokes. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver from Outemu is a linear switch that prioritizes speed and responsiveness. It features a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making it highly favorable for both gamers and typists who value quick and precise movements. While these general pointers give you an idea of what each switch offers, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Kailh Box White and Outemu Yellow Silver switches both utilize polycarbonate material for their top housing, resulting in similar sound profiles. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, both switches produce sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sounds. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. Both switches offer a visually appealing option for users looking to enhance their keyboard aesthetics.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box White and Yellow Silver switches employ nylon material. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material, known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Whether typing on the Box White or Yellow Silver, users can experience the satisfying sensation of a switch with a deep and resonant sound.
While the housing materials differ between the top and bottom housings of each switch, it's important to note that the impact of these materials is split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a key, the bottom housing's qualities come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key is influenced more by the top housing. Therefore, while the specific materials may vary for each switch, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall sound experience provided by these switches.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Box White requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Yellow Silver's 45 grams. Similarly, the Box White's bottom out force is slightly higher at 60 grams, whereas the Yellow Silver has a bottom out force of 55 grams. Despite these slight differences, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Considering the weight of the switches, those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Outemu Yellow Silver switch. With a lower actuation and bottom out force, this switch allows for extended typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue. It is well-suited for individuals who use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience may find the Kailh Box White switch to be a better choice. With slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, this switch provides a stronger push feel, enhancing the tactile feedback during typing.
Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference. The Box White offers a slightly heavier typing experience, while the Yellow Silver provides a lighter touch. Both switches offer a balanced medium actuation and bottom out force, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is slightly longer. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box White being slightly shallower and the Yellow Silver being closer to the most common 4.0 mm. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Box White a good option for those seeking heightened responsiveness. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keystroke depth might gravitate towards the Outemu Yellow Silver due to its longer travel distance. 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 Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
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 best known for its maximum audio feedback. When typing on these switches, users experience a sound profile that can be described as resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy. The sound of the Box White switch is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves, providing an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the Box White switch offers an accented tactility, enhancing the typing feel with every key press.
On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch from Outemu is favored by gamers and typists who prefer a speedy and responsive typing experience. Although the specific qualities of the Yellow Silver switch's sound profile are unknown, it is described as having a neutral sound profile. This suggests that the switch produces a moderate sound profile, neither too loud nor too quiet, making it suitable for various environments and preferences.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box White is known for its polished finish. This results in a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Box White switch provides a sleek feel, thanks to the materials used and potentially factory lubing. On the other hand, no specific information is available regarding the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White provides a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile, coupled with an accented tactility and a polished feel. The Yellow Silver, on the other hand, offers a neutral sound profile suitable for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. While the specific feel of the Yellow Silver switch is unknown, it is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as board choice and keycaps when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize maximum audio feedback and a tactile typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be a suitable choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, you can enjoy a satisfying crunch reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves while typing. The Box White switch also offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the polished feel of this switch ensures smooth and refined key travel, reducing friction and enhancing the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, if you value a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch may better suit your preferences. With a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, this switch offers a speedy and responsive typing experience. It has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both gamers and typists. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding its feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy the tactile and auditory feedback of a clicky switch and prioritize a polished feel, go for the Box White. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver may be more suitable. Consider your typing style, gaming needs, and desired sound profile to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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