Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, some key differences and similarities stand out. The Ink Yellow is favored for its shorter travel and is recommended for those seeking a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. It offers a smooth and clacky feel, making it ideal for users looking for a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch lacks a standout feature but is known for its silent operation. 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
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, we find that both switches feature unique characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profile. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Silent Ocean switch also allows for RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Ink Yellow's INK blend bottom housing shares similar characteristics with its top housing, providing a thin and higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder tone. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean differ in terms of their specific characteristics, they both play vital roles in shaping the sound profile of the switches. The INK blend and polycarbonate materials each contribute to a unique sound experience, with the INK blend offering a slightly more clacky sound compared to the crisper sound of the polycarbonate. Similarly, the nylon and INK blend bottom housings provide distinct tactile feedback, with the former delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile while the latter creates a thinner and higher-pitched tone. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch reveals some key differences. The Ink Yellow has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 45 grams, making the Ink Yellow a heavier switch in terms of initial keypress. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Dustproof Silent Ocean requires 65 grams while the Ink Yellow needs 67 grams, making the Dustproof Silent Ocean slightly heavier in this aspect. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch for its lighter actuation force, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Gateron Ink Yellow switch with a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Ink Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the slight variation in travel distance may result in a slightly different feel when pressing the keys. If you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker responses, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean might be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 Ink Yellow linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various typing purposes. Additionally, it provides a clacky sound when pressed, resulting in a sharp and percussive sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch's sound profile is unknown, as there is no available information on it. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch provides a mild typing experience that is gentle on the fingers. This switch offers a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch's tactile feel is unspecified, and further information is not available on its tactile qualities.
Overall, while the sound and feel of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch are known to provide a satisfying typing experience with a balance of smoothness and clackiness, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch remain unclear. Therefore, it is recommended to base your decision on available information and personal preferences to determine which switch would best suit your typing needs. If the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch offers similar characteristics to the Ink Yellow switch, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smoother, clackier typing experience that falls between a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch would be a great choice for you. This switch offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, if you prioritize a dustproof design and a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your typing preferences and specific needs, so consider these factors carefully before making your choice.
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