Kailh BCP vs. Outemu Silent Ocean

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh BCP and Outemu Silent Ocean linear switches offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Kailh BCP is praised for its innovative design, which reimagines the classic Black Cherry Pies, delivering a unique typing experience characterized by a creamy, viscous feel along with a delightful poppy and clacky sound profile. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback and a bit of acoustic charm while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean caters to users seeking a more subdued experience, emphasizing a quiet operation without sacrificing performance. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers or office workers who need to maintain focus or minimize noise disruption. Both switches have their own merits, catering to the diverse needs of keyboard enthusiasts; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh BCP Linear

Outemu Silent Ocean Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh BCP and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches, a notable distinction arises from their top housings. The Kailh BCP features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Ocean incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and conducive to creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This difference indicates that while both switches can produce appealing auditory experiences, the texture and tone of sound produced will vary significantly, with the BCP offering a more muted acoustical performance compared to the clearer resonance of the Silent Ocean.

The bottom housing of both switches, however, tells a different story. Both the Kailh BCP and the Outemu Silent Ocean utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in similar acoustic properties. The nylon in both switches is responsible for a deeper sound profile, augmenting the typing experience with a fuller and rounder sound. Since the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, users can expect a consistent auditory experience from both switches at this aspect, despite the dissimilarities in their top housings. As such, while the BCP might deliver a more subdued sound when the key is released, the tactile feedback and overall sensation when bottoming out will feel more alike due in part to their shared nylon composition.

In essence, the contrasting materials used for the top housings of the Kailh BCP and Outemu Silent Ocean switches showcase distinct auditory profiles that cater to different preferences. However, because both switches rely on nylon for their bottom housings, this provides a level of consistency in the sound produced when the switches are engaged. Therefore, while each switch offers unique auditory characteristics, the similar bottom housing material ensures that the fundamental feel and bottoming-out sound remains comparable, granting users a targeted choice based on their sound preferences rather than a difference in tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, notable differences in their actuation forces emerge. The BCP switch requires an actuation force of 52 grams, while the Silent Ocean is lighter at 45 grams. This means that users of the Silent Ocean may find a more comfortable typing experience over prolonged sessions, as a lighter switch often reduces finger fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the BCP switch has a measurement of 63.5 grams, compared to the Silent Ocean's slightly higher force of 65 grams. Both switches fall in the medium-heavy category, but while the BCP provides a heavier actuation force, the Silent Ocean maintains a heavier bottom out threshold. Thus, users preferring a lighter overall feel might gravitate toward the Outemu Silent Ocean, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Kailh BCP.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, the differences are quite clear. The Kailh BCP features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Outemu Silent Ocean has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that pressing down on the Kailh BCP will result in a slightly more responsive feel, which can be appealing to gamers who prefer quicker response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying depth for those who enjoy a heftier tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: if you favor faster actuation, the Kailh BCP is the way to go; if you prefer a fuller keystroke experience, the Silent Ocean is a better fit.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh BCP linear switch is known for its signature poppy and clacky sound profile, offering an engaging auditory experience that many enthusiasts cherish. This characteristically lively sound can enhance the typing experience, making it enjoyable for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. Unfortunately, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have a defined sound profile described, making it difficult to compare directly. However, being a silent switch, it can be inferred that it aims to provide a quieter typing experience, reducing the noise output significantly compared to other switches.

When it comes to feel, the BCP switch stands out with its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy characteristics. This unique tactile sensation contributes to an overall satisfying typing experience, allowing for a smooth and responsive action that many gamers and typists find appealing. In contrast, the feel of the Silent Ocean is not detailed, leaving its tactile experience largely unknown. However, as a silent switch, it might be expected to prioritize smoothness to support a more subdued typing approach.

In summary, the Kailh BCP linear switch offers a lively auditory experience paired with a uniquely satisfying tactile feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy feedback while typing. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Ocean's sound and feel characteristics remain largely unspecified but are likely engineered towards a quieter experience, which may appeal to users seeking silence over auditory feedback. Ultimately, if you prefer more engagement and character during typing, the BCP is the go-to, whereas the Silent Ocean may cater to those wanting to type discreetly.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your typing environment and personal preferences. If you appreciate a tactile experience with a rich and lively sound profile, the BCP is a great choice. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 63.5 grams provides a satisfying bouncy feel that can enhance your typing experience, especially if you're a fan of poppy and clacky sounds that make your keystrokes more engaging. However, if you're looking for a quieter, more subdued option, particularly in shared or noisy environments, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch would be better suited for you. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a smooth typing experience without the auditory distractions. In summary, choose the Kailh BCP for a dynamic, enjoyable sound and feel, and opt for the Outemu Silent Ocean when you prioritize silence and a more serious typing atmosphere.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silent Ocean Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more