Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean offer distinct qualities to consider. The Aliaz tactile switch is designed for quiet environments like the office, with its silent operation and medium-heavy weight providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch doesn't have a particular standout feature, making it a more versatile option. While the Aliaz offers a tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a smoother keystroke without any audible feedback. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the Aliaz has a polycarbonate bottom housing whereas the Dustproof Silent Ocean features a nylon bottom housing.
The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a similar sound profile to its top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound when typing. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This difference in bottom housing material between the two switches results in a variation in typing experience - Aliaz users will feel more impact and clarity in the bottom-out sound, while Dustproof Silent Ocean users will experience a duller and rounder sound during typing.
In terms of overall construction, the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean demonstrate how the combination of different housing materials can impact the sound and feel of a switch. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing for a similar sound profile, the choice of nylon for the Dustproof Silent Ocean's bottom housing gives it a distinct typing feel compared to the Aliaz. Whether preference lies with a sharper sound profile or a deeper sound with more impact, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on its housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it's evident that there is a significant difference in the weight of each. The Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches offer a tactile and silent typing experience, but the difference in force makes them suitable for individuals with different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Aliaz offers a deeper key press feel compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's shallower key press. If you enjoy a more traditional travel distance and a deeper key press, the Aliaz may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a shallower key press for faster response times, the Dustproof Silent Ocean could be the more suitable option. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for producing a muted typing experience, which is softer and quieter compared to regular mechanical switches. This makes it well-suited for quiet environments such as offices where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch does not have any specific information regarding its sound profile, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. When it comes to feel, the Aliaz switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key presses and reduced friction for a sleek feeling overall. The Dustproof Silent Ocean switch does not have any details provided about its feel, making it challenging to compare the two in this regard. Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a quiet sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the Gateron Aliaz switch would be a suitable choice. However, without more information on the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison between the two in terms of feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing environment. If you value a quiet typing experience and enjoy a medium-heavy key feel that provides a satisfying feedback with each keystroke, then the Aliaz switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are not particularly concerned about noise levels, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch, whether it be sound, feel, or key weight. Happy typing!
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