Kailh Box Royal vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Cream Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that they both offer a tactile typing experience. The Box Royal is renowned for its sharp and intense tactility, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more pronounced tactile response. Additionally, the higher-pitched sound profile of the Box Royal adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow lacks any specific standout features in terms of tactility or sound. However, it is still a tactile switch offering a comfortable typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Outemu Cream Yellow, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housings. As a result, both the Box Royal and the Cream Yellow switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel.
However, while the housing materials of the Box Royal and Cream Yellow are the same, the design and construction of the switches may differ. The way in which the top and bottom housings are implemented within each switch can also impact the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This difference in housing placement can result in subtle variations in the overall sound and feel of each switch, despite both utilizing nylon as the housing material.
In conclusion, although the Kailh Box Royal and Outemu Cream Yellow switches both feature nylon housing materials that contribute to a similar sound profile, the overall typing experience may still vary due to differences in design and housing placement. Whether it be the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound or the influence of the top housing on the key release sound, each switch offers a unique typing experience that may appeal to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal and Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switches both share a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Royal is heavier with 70 grams compared to the Cream Yellow's 60 grams. This means that the Box Royal provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push feel compared to the Cream Yellow. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cream Yellow would be the more suitable option as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Box Royal has a longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. A difference of 0.3 mm may not seem like much, but it can affect the overall typing experience. Those who prefer a deeper keypress may lean towards the Box Royal, while those looking for a quicker response time may prefer the Cream Yellow. However, both switches fall within the range of common travel distances and can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences. Overall, the key difference between these switches lies in their travel distance, offering users the option to choose based on their specific typing preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25, whereas the Outemu Cream Yellow 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 Royal tactile switch is best known for its sharp, binary tactility, providing an almost aggressive feedback with a relatively higher pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch does not have any specific known qualities regarding feel or sound. When it comes to sound, the Box Royal produces a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and clear feedback. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's sound profile remains unknown. In terms of feel, the Box Royal offers a sharp tactile feedback that is intense and prominent with each keypress, giving users a satisfying tactile experience. Unfortunately, information about the feel of the Cream Yellow switch is not available.
Overall, if you prefer a tactile switch with a sharp and crisp tactility, along with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with unknown qualities, the Outemu Cream Yellow may be worth exploring further for a potentially different tactile experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch or the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for tactility and sound profile. If you prefer a sharp, aggressive tactility with a higher pitched sound, the Box Royal switch would be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactility with a quieter sound profile, the Cream Yellow switch would be more suitable. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so it's important to consider what specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
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