Kailh BCP vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh BCP and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean are two standout options in the linear switch category. The Kailh BCP is celebrated for its innovative design that reimagines the classic Black Cherry Pies, resulting in a typing experience characterized by a creamy, viscous feel and an elastic bounce that users have come to love. Its distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile adds an extra layer of satisfaction for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean caters to a different audience, prioritizing quiet and smooth keystrokes ideal for environments where noise reduction is crucial. This switch is perfect for late-night gaming sessions or office settings, ensuring that every keystroke remains discreet. Both switches have merits that cater to individual preferences, but they also differ significantly in feel and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh BCP and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Kailh BCP features a nylon top housing, known for its softer consistency and ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. This contrasts with the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound, giving the Outemu switch a high-pitched clarity that can be particularly pleasing for users who enjoy a brighter aural feedback. Aesthetically, the clear nature of polycarbonate also enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a preferred choice for users who prioritize visual elements in their keyboard setups.
On the other hand, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which creates a uniformity in their sound profiles when the key is bottomed out. This shared element means that regardless of the differences in top housing, both switches will deliver a duller, deeper sound when pressed down completely. The nylon material's sound-absorbing qualities ensure that users experience a consistent and rounded bottom-out sound across both switch types, reinforcing the impression of solidity and depth. This aspect highlights how the bottom housing significantly impacts the tactile feel and sound during full depression of the key, providing a comforting familiarity for users.
In summary, while the Kailh BCP and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean differ in their top housing materials, leading to varied sound signatures during release, they achieve a similar bottom-out experience due to their identical nylon bottom housings. This division of sound characteristics allows users to enjoy a blend of auditory styles: the deeper, fuller tones from the nylon bottoms coexist with the distinctive crispness from the polycarbonate top of the Dustproof Silent Ocean and the rounded qualities of the BCP's nylon top. Ultimately, this interplay between housing materials contributes to nuanced typing experiences for both switch types, offering a unique palette of sound and tactility for enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, there are noticeable differences in actuation force that cater to various typing preferences. The BCP switch features an actuation force of 52 grams, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean is lighter at 45 grams. This means that the Ocean switch may provide a more effortless typing experience, making it suitable for extended use without fatigue. However, both switches exhibit medium-heavy bottom out forces, with the BCP at 63.5 grams and the Ocean slightly heavier at 65 grams. This slight difference in bottom out force indicates that while the Ocean switch is easier to activate, both switches provide a similar substantial feel when pressed down completely. Consequently, those who prefer a lighter actuation force alongside a heavier bottom out may find the Dustproof Silent Ocean appealing, while users who prioritize a stronger push feel may lean towards the Kailh BCP. Ultimately, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience, but the nuanced differences in actuation forces make them suited for different user preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch exhibit distinct travel distances, with the BCP measuring 3.5 mm and the Dustproof Silent Ocean at 3.3 mm. This makes the BCP the longer option, providing a slight depth that some users may prefer for a more substantial keystroke feel. On the other hand, the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean can appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times for fast-paced gameplay. While both switches fall within the shorter ranges that are increasingly favored in modern designs, the difference in travel distance offers users a choice between a more traditional depth with the BCP and the slightly faster actuation that the Outemu switch provides.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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
The Kailh BCP linear switch is celebrated for its unique sound profile, which features a signature poppy and clacky noise that many typists find satisfying. This lively sound adds an engaging auditory feedback that elevates the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch does not have a well-defined sound profile, which may suggest a more muted experience. However, it’s important to note that the sound of any switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and the materials of the keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
When it comes to the feel, the BCP switch offers a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation that provides a tactile response some users may find particularly enjoyable. This tactile feedback, along with the poppy sound, enhances the overall typing experience. In contrast, the feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean is not explicitly detailed, making it difficult to assert a direct comparison regarding how it might stack up against the BCP's distinctive attributes.
In conclusion, while the Kailh BCP linear switch boasts a lively sound and a unique, bouncy feel, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch lacks specified characteristics, particularly in terms of sound and feel. This makes the BCP an appealing choice for typists who enjoy auditory feedback and a distinctive tactile sensation. Those exploring the Outemu switches may find a more subdued experience, though the specific qualities remain unclear. Ultimately, both options can provide satisfying typing experiences; however, the BCP is likely to stand out for those who appreciate enhanced auditory and tactile engagement.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you enjoy a lively typing experience marked by a satisfying poppy and clacky sound, the Kailh BCP is the way to go. Its unique bouncy feel and medium-heavy resistance make it ideal for users who favor an engaging tactile feedback while typing or gaming. This is especially true if you appreciate the characteristic sound that accompanies each keystroke. On the other hand, if you value silence and minimal disturbance—perhaps you're in a shared workspace or prefer a quieter environment—the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean would be a better fit. Despite having a slightly heavier bottom-out force, its dustproof design and whisper-quiet operation allow you to type without drawing attention. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your priorities: for an exhilarating typing sound and feel, choose the Kailh BCP, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean will suit those who prioritize a discreet and smooth experience.
Mentioned in this article
