Keygeek Keylin vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switches for your typing or gaming needs, the Keygeek Keylin and the Outemu Ocean offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Keylin is celebrated for its linear design, utilizing innovative molds that provide a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and remarkable smoothness, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and fluid key presses. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean is classified as a tactile switch, designed to provide noticeable feedback with every keystroke, appealing to typists who appreciate a more interactive and engaging typing experience. While both switches have their unique advantages—smoothness and acoustic richness in the Keylin, versus tactile feedback in the Ocean—your ideal choice ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Keygeek Keylin and the Outemu Ocean exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials, which significantly influence the typing experience. The Keylin features a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material absorbs sound more effectively due to its lower density, resulting in a rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and delivers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The clarity and resonance afforded by polycarbonate create a notable auditory distinction between the two switches, particularly when executing keystrokes. Aesthetically, the translucency of the polycarbonate housing enhances the RGB lighting effects, allowing for a more visually stunning display.
Interestingly, both the Keylin and the Ocean share nylon as their bottom housing material. This similarity ensures that key characteristics, such as sound absorption and tactile feedback, remain consistent across both switches despite their differing top housing materials. The nylon bottom housing in both models elicits a deeper, rounder sound profile, which significantly impacts the bottom-out feel and sound when the key is fully pressed down. Thus, while the top housings introduce contrasting auditory experiences, the uniformity in bottom housing material creates a cohesive feel during key presses, emphasizing the deeper sound associated with nylon.
Ultimately, the combination of different top and bottom housings results in a unique interplay of auditory and tactile sensations in both the Keylin and the Ocean switches. While the Keylin’s nylon top contributes to a fuller sound when typing, the Outemu Ocean's polycarbonate top ensures a crisper auditory experience upon release. However, both switches share a common ground in their nylon bottom housing that provides an underlying consistency in feel and sound quality. This means that users can expect fulfilling typing experiences from either switch, though the auditory nuances and the visual appeal influenced by the top housing may ultimately guide their preference.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force for the Ocean switch remains unknown. The Keylin switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer less resistance during typing and gaming sessions, allowing for extended use without fatigue. In contrast, the Ocean switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, which caters to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, though the absence of a specified bottom out force leaves a gap in our understanding of its overall feel. Therefore, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the Keylin is the better option, while the Outemu Ocean appeals to users who favor a heavier actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing comfort and resistance.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Keylin the shorter option, offering a more responsive experience that may appeal to gamers seeking quicker key presses. In contrast, the Ocean's greater travel distance provides a deeper feel that some users may prefer, as it allows for a more substantial engagement with each keystroke. Choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preferences; those who favor rapid response times might gravitate toward the Keylin, while those who enjoy a more generous key travel might opt for the Ocean.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 Keylin linear switch offers a rich acoustic profile that enhances the overall typing experience, contributing to a satisfying auditory feedback that many users appreciate. The smoothness of this switch further complements its sound, making it pleasant to type on. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch does not have specific sound characteristics highlighted, which suggests that it may not have a distinctive acoustic profile or might be relatively quiet compared to other tactile switches. Since the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycap choice, both switches might still produce varying results depending on the user's setup.
When considering feel, the Keylin switch is noted for its exceptional smoothness, delivering a premium typing experience that eliminates any unwanted friction during key presses. This smooth operation is appealing to users who prefer a seamless experience while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch does not have a detailed description regarding its feel, leaving some ambiguity about how it compares to the Keylin. However, tactile switches generally offer a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which could provide a different typing sensation that some users find rewarding.
Overall, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is celebrated for its rich sound profile and unparalleled smoothness, making it a top choice for those seeking a premium experience. The Outemu Ocean tactile switch, while lacking specific sound and feel descriptors, may appeal to users looking for more traditional tactile feedback, albeit without detailed insight into its performance. Users can expect a distinct typing experience from both switches, with the Keylin clearly leading in the qualitative aspects known, while the Ocean's characteristics remain a bit of a mystery. Each switch caters to different preferences, ensuring that regardless of choice, individuals can achieve satisfying results in their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing habits. If you appreciate a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a lighter actuation force—ideal for fast typing or gaming—the Keylin switch would be the better option for you. Its premium feel and rich acoustics can enhance your overall typing experience, making it a joy for those who often type for extended periods. Conversely, if you prefer tactile feedback when typing, the Outemu Ocean switch could serve you well, providing a distinct response that can help guide your fingers and enhance your typing accuracy. The Keylin excels in delivering a serene and quiet experience, while the Ocean’s tactile bump can offer satisfaction for those who enjoy a more engaging feel on each keystroke. Ultimately, consider your typing style, whether you favor a smooth linear response or the assurance of tactile feedback, to decide which switch aligns best with your needs.
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