Keygeek Keylin vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Keylin and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean both offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Keylin stands out with its innovative new molds, providing a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize tactile feedback and sound in their typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean is designed with noise reduction in mind, providing a quieter keystroke while ensuring durability against dust and debris, which makes it suitable for quieter environments or for users who prefer a more subdued typing experience. Each of these switches brings its own benefits to the table, allowing users to select one that aligns with their specific needs and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Keygeek Keylin Linear

Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches, a distinct divergence emerges in their top housings. The Keylin utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is characterized by its softer texture, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This attribute allows the nylon material to absorb sound more effectively, generating a more muted auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean employs polycarbonate for its top housing, a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This difference means that when using the Keylin, typists can expect a duller and rounder sound, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a crisper auditory feedback, particularly appealing to those who prefer clarity in sound while typing.

The bottom housing materials of both switches, however, present a point of convergence as they both feature nylon. This shared choice of material influences the overall sound profile and feel during typing. As nylon is known to yield a deeper and fuller sound, users of both switches will experience a similar sensation at the bottom of the key press. The nylon bottom housing is particularly notable for its ability to absorb sound, ensuring a more subdued bottom-out sound regardless of the contrasting top materials. This commonality results in a consistent auditory experience when the keys are pressed down, reinforcing the idea that while the top housings differ, the key bottoming experience for both switches remains comparable.

Ultimately, the combined effect of the differing top housing materials ensures a varied typing sound and feel between the Keygeek Keylin and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean. While the Keylin's nylon top contributes to a rounded sound experience during key release, the Dustproof Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing cranks up the clarity and sharpness, enhancing the immediate auditory feedback of each keystroke. However, the similarity in bottom housings offers a sense of continuity in overall sound dynamics when the switches are engaged. This distinct combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the respective top and bottom housings allows users to find a keyboard experience tailored to their preferences, whether they favor a deep, full sound or a more heightened and resonant auditory profile.

Weight

The Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch cater to different typing preferences, particularly in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch has a medium-heavy actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel and feedback while typing. As a result, the Keylin is the lighter option, promoting comfort during prolonged use, while the Outemu switch is heavier, providing a stronger push that some typists find rewarding. Ultimately, selecting between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, the Keylin stands out with a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Keylin a better option for those who prefer a more pronounced keypress with additional depth, which can contribute to a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean, with its shorter travel distance, is more suited for users who favor quicker response times, often preferred by gamers. Both switches provide satisfactory performance, but for a balance of responsiveness and depth, the Keylin's longer travel distance may be the preferable choice for some, while others will appreciate the more rapid actuation of the Dustproof Silent Ocean.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is known to deliver rich acoustics, contributing to a fuller auditory profile when typing. This quality enhances the overall experience, making each keystroke feel more engaging and satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch does not have a specified sound profile, suggesting that it may not stand out in terms of acoustics compared to its counterparts. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the actual sound produced is also influenced by the keyboard’s construction and the keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Keylin linear switch is particularly noted for its exceptional smoothness, which enhances typing fluidity and overall comfort during long sessions. This characteristic makes it highly appealing for both typing and gaming, as the smooth action can minimize finger fatigue. In contrast, there is no specific description for the feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, leaving a gap in knowledge about its tactile qualities and overall user experience.

In conclusion, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch stands out with its rich sound and incredibly smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a premium typing experience. While the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean lacks detailed information on sound and feel, it may still serve well in a quiet setup, especially if sound dampening is a priority. Ultimately, if you value smoothness and rich acoustics, the Keylin is the definitive option, whereas the Dustproof Silent Ocean could be suitable for those who prefer a more understated, silent typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you favor a lighter touch and a smoother typing experience with rich acoustics, the Keylin switch, with its bottom-out force of just 48 grams, might be your best bet. This makes it ideal for those who type rapidly or prefer a feedback-rich environment where every keystroke feels satisfying. Conversely, if you require a switch that provides a bit more resistance, the Dustproof Silent Ocean, with a higher bottom-out force of 65 grams, may suit your needs better. This medium-heavy feel can be beneficial if you're used to more tactile feedback and prefer a switch that prevents accidental key presses. Additionally, if you're working or gaming in a noise-sensitive environment, consider that the outemu silent switch is designed to minimize sound. Therefore, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a lighter, more acoustically rich experience with the Keylin or a more substantial, quieter option with the Dustproof Silent Ocean. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, making your specific use case and preferences key to selecting the right one for your keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Keylin Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more