Gateron CM vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer unique features and benefits. The Gateron CM stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature compared to traditional polycarbonate housings. The impeccable factory lube job of the CM switches ensures a smooth typing experience, with a bouncy sensation thanks to its lengthened, dual-staged spring. The CM switch presents various tactile attributes for typists seeking a specific typing experience, including qualities such as buttery, bassy, polished, thocky, low-pitched, creamy, and frictionless. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean, although lacking specific standout features, may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience. However, let's explore these differences in greater detail so you can choose the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the Outemu Silent Ocean both feature nylon housing materials in their bottom housings, providing a deep and full sound profile due to the absorption of sound by the softer plastic. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches utilizing nylon. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Ocean utilizes nylon in its bottom housing as well, ensuring a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience with the nylon material creating a distinct sound quality that enthusiasts appreciate.
On the other hand, the Gateron CM uses a nylon top housing, while the Outemu Silent Ocean boasts a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material in the Silent Ocean switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer plastic of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound compared to the softer nylon material in the Gateron CM. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Silent Ocean switch allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects to shine through, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy colorful setups.
In terms of feel and sound, the housing materials of the Gateron CM and Outemu Silent Ocean play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. While both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound profile, they differ in their top housing materials. The Gateron CM's nylon top housing provides a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Silent Ocean offers a sharper and crisper typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and aesthetics, with the Gateron CM providing a classic typing feel and the Outemu Silent Ocean delivering a more modern and vibrant sound profile with its polycarbonate housing.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch both fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CM has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Outemu Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the Outemu Silent Ocean slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, but heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Gateron CM. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Outemu Silent Ocean, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron CM. In general, both switches provide a similar experience when it comes to typing and gaming, as their forces are relatively close, with slight variations to accommodate different preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the CM is slightly shorter and may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Silent Ocean switch provides a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key, which some users may find more satisfying. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
The Outemu 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
The Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its deep, bassy sound profile, offering a rich and satisfying typing experience. The nylon housing enhances the sound quality, providing a thocky and low-pitched tone during key presses. Paired with a factory lube job and a dual-staged spring design, these switches deliver a buttery, polished, and creamy feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing journey. The frictionless nature of the CM switch further enhances the overall typing experience, allowing for seamless key travel with minimal resistance.
On the other hand, information on the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is currently unavailable. Without specific details on the sound and feel of the Silent Ocean switch, it is challenging to make a direct comparison with the Gateron CM switch. However, based on the descriptions provided for the CM switch, it is likely that the Silent Ocean switch may offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch is praised for its rich and deep sound profile, as well as its smooth and buttery typing feel. With a focus on providing a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, these switches are a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the information on the Outemu Silent Ocean switch may be lacking, individuals seeking a comparable sound and feel to the Gateron CM switch can expect similar results based on the qualities highlighted in the comparison.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a rich, deep sound signature, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its full nylon housing, impeccable factory lube job, and bouncy typing experience, the CM switches offer a smooth and satisfying typing journey. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a similar bottom out force but are focused on silent operation, you may want to opt for the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch. While lacking specific sound and feel descriptors, the Silent Ocean switch is designed to provide a quieter typing experience without compromising on performance. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and noise level. Consider what factors are most important to you in a keyboard switch and choose accordingly.
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