Bsun Cliff vs. Outemu Ocean

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Cliff and the Outemu Ocean represent two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Cliff switch is renowned for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, offering users a satisfying feedback experience that enhances typability and gaming performance. In contrast, while the Ocean switch does not have specific standout features highlighted, it is also categorized as a tactile switch, promising users a certain level of feedback that can enhance their typing comfort. Those who favor the Cliff will likely appreciate its pronounced tactile bump and audio feedback, making it an ideal choice for both typing and gaming enthusiasts. Conversely, the Outemu Ocean could appeal to users who are looking for a more understated option that still provides a tactile experience without the louder sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Cliff Tactile

Outemu Ocean Tactile

$2.75

$2.19 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Bsun Cliff and the Outemu Ocean switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in remarkably similar sound profiles. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. This shared material choice ensures that both switches excel in translucency, making them particularly adept at showcasing RGB lighting when combined with their clear housings. The emphasis on polycarbonate aligns the acoustic characteristics of both switches, offering users a vibrant and resonant typing experience that appeals to those who prioritize sound clarity in their mechanical keyboards.

In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Cliff and the Ocean switches is crafted from nylon, a material renowned for its softer, sound-absorbing properties. Nylon's inherent qualities furnish each switch with a deeper and fuller sound profile, differentiating it from its polycarbonate counterpart. The combination of a softer bottom housing and a harder top housing means that the overall auditory experience is intricately balanced: the nylon absorbs sound upon bottoming out while the polycarbonate enhances the sound during key release. This blend provides a nuanced typing feel, showcasing how material selection affects the overall acoustics and feedback of mechanical switches.

When considering the overall design, the juxtaposition of the housing materials highlights a broader principle in switch construction: the interplay between different materials can create a tailored auditory and tactile experience. Both the Cliff and the Ocean leverage the advantages of polycarbonate for clarity and nylon for warmth, allowing them to provide users with a sophisticated experience that encompasses both the sharpness of a higher-pitched sound and the richness of a fuller tone. Therefore, even though the switches employ different materials for their bottom and top housing, their combined effects result in a well-rounded and satisfying typing experience.

Weight

The Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch present distinct differences in their actuation force, which can significantly influence user experience based on preference. The Cliff requires a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ocean has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, indicating a firmer push, which may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing feel. However, the bottom out force for the Ocean is not specified. Consequently, while the Cliff is the lighter option overall, making it easier on the fingers during extended use, the heavier actuation force of the Ocean might provide a more tactile sensation for typists who favor a greater resistance in their switches.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, there is a clear difference between the two. The Cliff has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ocean measures 4 mm. This means that the Ocean provides a longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and depth when pressing the keys. Conversely, the Cliff, with its shorter travel distance, may cater more to those who prefer a quicker response time, especially beneficial for gamers who favor rapid keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a snappier, more responsive feel or a deeper, more substantial keypress experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is characterized by a crisp sound signature that adds a pleasant auditory feedback while typing. This makes it a good choice for those who appreciate an audible cue with each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch lacks specific information regarding its sound profile, which leaves some ambiguity. However, it’s important to remember that the overall acoustic experience can also be influenced by the keyboard used and the keycaps chosen, so one might achieve a similar sound quality depending on these factors even without detailed information on the Ocean's acoustic characteristics.

Regarding feel, the Cliff tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility, providing enough resistance to make each keypress feel satisfying without being overwhelming. This level of tactility is often appreciated by typists and gamers alike, as it strikes a balance between precision and comfort. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, which leaves potential users without guidance on how it may compare in terms of tactile response. Thus, the Cliff might be the preferable choice for someone seeking a solid tactile experience while the feel of the Ocean remains an unknown.

In conclusion, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch stands out with its crisp sound and medium tactility, making it a well-rounded option for users who seek both auditory feedback and a satisfying typing sensation. The Outemu Ocean tactile switch, while lacking detailed descriptions in terms of sound and feel, still presents a potential alternative, but users may be left wondering how it compares. For those looking for specific tactile qualities, the Cliff is the safer bet, while the Ocean requires further exploration for an accurate assessment. Ultimately, personal preference and the specific context of use will dictate which switch might be the best fit, especially considering that other factors can significantly influence the experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter actuation force and enjoy a moderately tactile feel with a crisp sound signature, then the Bsun Cliff is likely the better choice for you. This switch is excellent for fast typists or gamers who appreciate a responsive feel without too much resistance. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a different typing experience and value a more specific tactile feedback or sound profile that the Outemu Ocean may offer—albeit less defined in the data available—then you might want to explore those characteristics further. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize light actuation and tactile feedback with the Cliff or are intrigued by the qualities of the Ocean switch that align more closely with your specific needs or keyboard layout.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Cliff Tactile

$2.75

$2.19 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Ocean Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more