Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately see the key differences between a linear switch and a tactile switch. The Ink Yellow is favored for its shorter travel and smooth, clacky typing experience, making it a great choice for those looking for a balance between a laptop and standard mechanical keyboard feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean lacks specific standout features but falls under the tactile switch category. If you prefer a switch with a tactile bump for feedback while typing, the Ocean may be more suitable for you. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Ocean, one key difference is in their top housings. The Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Ocean uses a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a satisfying typing experience, the INK blend provides a clackier sound compared to the polycarbonate's clearer and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic edge to the Ocean switches.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the differences between the Ink Yellow and the Ocean become more pronounced. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend bottom housing mirrors the characteristics of its top housing with a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, resulting in a consistent typing experience. Conversely, the Ocean switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, which lends a deeper and fuller sound profile to typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the INK blend. This contrast in sound profiles between the bottom housings further showcases the unique characteristics of each switch.
When considering the overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in defining the sound and feel of each switch. While the top housing primarily impacts the sound upon key release, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel. The distinct qualities of the INK blend and polycarbonate top housings, as well as the differences between the INK blend and nylon bottom housings, highlight how each material contributes to the overall typing experience. Whether clacky and high-pitched or deeper and fuller, the different housing materials of the Ink Yellow and the Ocean cater to a variety of preferences, offering diverse options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is evident that the Ink Yellow is the heavier of the two. The Ink Yellow has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for triggering keystrokes, while the bottom out force signifies the pressure required to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Outemu Ocean may be the preferred choice. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Gateron Ink Yellow. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is a crucial factor to consider based on personal preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of popular travel distances, with the Ocean being more traditional and the Ink Yellow being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Ocean. In general, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth 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 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 users and environments. Additionally, it provides a clacky sound when pressed, giving a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's sound profile is currently unavailable. Please keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a mild typing experience with a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This switch falls in the middle ground, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. As for the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, there is no available information on its feel qualities at this time.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Ink Yellow offers a smoother typing experience with a clacky sound, the Ocean's tactile feedback may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced key feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and clacky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ink Yellow would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a tactile bump, the Outemu Ocean may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smoothness and clackiness or prefer a tactile typing experience.
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