TTC Iron vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch. The TTC Iron is known for its distinctive clacky sound signature and light actuation, making it a favorite for those seeking precision and pleasure in typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean, while lacking a specific standout feature, offers a tactile feedback that some users prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Each switch has its own set of characteristics and advantages, making it important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between the two. 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
41g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Iron and Outemu Ocean both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Iron features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Ocean's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, while POM provides a more traditional sound experience. While both materials offer distinct characteristics, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Iron utilizes POM, creating a similar deep and muted sound profile as seen in its top housing. On the other hand, the Ocean uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound compared to POM. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile overall. Again, both materials offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound, with POM providing a more traditional typing experience and nylon offering a softer, fuller sound.
When considering a switch with different materials for the top and bottom housing, it's important to note how each material impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that a switch like the Iron, with consistent POM housing throughout, will offer a consistent sound profile across keystrokes, while the Ocean's use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing will provide a more varied typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is clear that the Iron is lighter in both aspects. The Iron has an actuation force of 41 grams, whereas the Ocean has an actuation force of 55 grams. Similarly, the Iron has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Iron would be the better choice, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a heavier push, the Ocean may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ocean has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Iron switch. The Iron switch may provide a quicker response due to its shorter distance, making it preferable for gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Ocean switch offers a bit more depth in the keypress, which some users may find more satisfying. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall feel and performance. Ultimately, the decision between the two may come down to personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Iron linear switch stands out with its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy noise with each press. This adds a satisfying auditory element to typing that resonates well with users seeking a distinct sound profile. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is unknown, so it may or may not offer a similar clacky experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is renowned for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance and requiring light force to activate. This results in a smooth and effortless typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. In comparison, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch lacks a description of its feel, so it's uncertain if it provides a similar light and responsive typing experience. However, if the Iron switch is easy-to-press and mild, it is likely that the Ocean switch may offer a similar level of comfort and tactile feedback.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile and easy-to-press feel, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts looking for precision and pleasure in every keystroke. While the qualities of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch remain unknown, it is possible that it could potentially offer a comparable typing experience for users seeking a different tactile feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as well as compatibility with other components of the mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you should consider your priorities in typing experience. If you value a light actuation force and buttery smooth travel with a pronounced clacky sound signature, then the Iron switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a tactile bump for enhanced feedback and a moderate sound profile, then the Ocean switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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