Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean offer unique options to consider. The Crystal is a linear switch that provides an elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a smooth typing experience. Additionally, its neutral sound profile makes it ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean is also a linear switch but lacks distinct characteristics. While the Crystal offers a specific feel and sound profile, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may appeal to those who prefer a more subtle 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, the Dustproof Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, both the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. The clear nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. However, the Dustproof Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience with a deeper sound profile. This contrast in sound profile between the top and bottom housings showcases how different materials can influence the overall feel and sound of a switch.
When comparing the two housing materials, it is interesting to note how the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on a switch will emphasize the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the top housing material. This dynamic interplay between the top and bottom housing materials ultimately shapes the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Crystal switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it fall into the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch shares the same actuation force of 45 grams but has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This means that the Crystal switch offers a lighter typing experience compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, which provides a more substantial and firm feel. Depending on personal preference, individuals may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Crystal switch for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier forces of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Crystal switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch provides a slightly shallower press. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Crystal switch. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for responsiveness and depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean 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 Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched characteristics, creating a unique auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch does not have any known sound descriptors, making it a quieter option compared to the Crystal. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a polished typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. This results in reduced friction and a sleek feel while typing. The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch does not have any known feel descriptors available, leaving it a bit of a mystery in terms of tactile feedback. However, if it shares similarities with the Crystal, users can expect a similar polished feel during typing.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switch stands out for its unique chirpy sound profile and polished feel, providing a distinctive typing experience for users. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch lacks known descriptors in terms of sound and feel, making it a quieter and potentially smoother option. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer different qualities that can enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, it is important for newcomers to consider all available information and potentially try out both switches to determine which one suits their preferences best.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it really comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a lighter touch with a slightly elastic feel and a neutral sound profile, the Crystal switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch and are looking for a dustproof option, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may be more suitable. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and whether dustproofing is a priority for you when making your decision. Both switches offer unique qualities, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing needs.
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