Kailh Box White vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cream Pink are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Box White is a clicky switch that is ideal for those seeking maximum audio feedback, with a distinct "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility while typing. On the other hand, the Cream Pink is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke without any audible feedback. While the Box White is categorized as resonant, high-pitched, crunchy, and polished, the Cream Pink does not have any specific characteristics listed. Each switch has its own advantages, with the Box White offering a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, and the Cream Pink providing a smooth and quiet typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cream Pink, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties, which absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite both switches sharing the same material for their bottom housing, the slight differences in design and construction could lead to variances in sound when typing on each switch.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cream Pink differ, with the Box White featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Cream Pink utilizing nylon. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and clear translucency. In contrast, the Cream Pink's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and producing a rounder tone. These differences in top housing materials could result in distinct typing experiences for users of each switch.
When considering the overall sound and feel of the switches, the qualities of the housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom housing of each switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cream Pink, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profiles based on the properties of nylon and polycarbonate.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that in terms of triggering a keystroke, users can expect a similar experience from both switches. However, where they differ is in their bottom out force. The Box White has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Cream Pink, which has a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that while both switches require the same amount of force to activate, the Cream Pink provides a slightly heavier typing experience when fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Box White may be the better choice, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may find the Cream Pink more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Box White offers a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the Cream Pink provides a more substantial depth with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 Cream Pink 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 is known for its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a sharp and immersive auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. In contrast, information on the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch's sound qualities is currently unavailable. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
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. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch at this time.
Taking all available information into consideration, if you are looking for a switch with a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile, as well as a polished and smooth typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be a great choice. If you are in need of information about the sound and feel of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, you may consider trying out both switches for a hands-on comparison to determine which one best suits your preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when making a decision between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value maximum audio feedback with a crisp and sharp sound profile, along with a tactile feel reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, then the Box White switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more refined typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cream Pink switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
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