Bsun Kiki Red vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note that they are both linear switches, but offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Kiki Reds from BSUN are praised for their finely-tuned typing experience, with a balance of high-pitched clackiness without being excessively loud. These switches are ideal for those who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and smooth actuation thanks to the use of Ly in the stems. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switches from Outemu offer a silent typing experience with no specific standout features mentioned. While the Kiki Reds are described as 'clacky', 'creamy', 'silky', and 'snappy', the Silent Ocean seems to be more of a blank canvas. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Silent Ocean, one can see distinct differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Kiki Red utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing that generates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience, as some may prefer a quieter and more subtle noise, while others may enjoy a crisper and more pronounced sound when typing.
Additionally, the differences between the bottom housing materials further differentiate the two switches. The Kiki Red's POM bottom housing continues the trend of creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing elicits a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to POM, resulting in a duller but more robust typing experience. These variations in sound profiles can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts who seek a specific typing sound and feel.
It's important to note that the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of a switch can split the qualities each material brings to the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, selecting a switch with the desired housing materials can help users achieve the typing experience they prefer, whether it be a quieter and softer sound profile from POM or a sharper and crisper sound from polycarbonate or nylon.
Weight
In comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force than the Silent Ocean. The actuation force of the Kiki Red is 42 grams, while the Silent Ocean requires 45 grams to actuate. For bottoming out, the Kiki Red needs 50 grams compared to the Silent Ocean's 65 grams. This makes the Kiki Red a lighter option overall. Some may prefer the Kiki Red for its lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean offers a heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Kiki Red may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Silent Ocean could provide a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the feel of the key press. Both switches offer unique experiences, so users can expect different results based on their selection.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
The Outemu 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
Considering the sound quality, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly loud. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is not available. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a smooth and creamy typing experience, thanks to its medium-light weighting and POM housing. The use of lubricant in the switch enhances the overall typing feel, making it a preferred choice for enthusiasts seeking a refined tactile experience. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the typing feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch stands out for its balanced sound profile and creamy typing experience, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts who value subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. While the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch may offer similar qualities, it's essential to consider individual preferences and requirements when choosing between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches are likely to provide a satisfactory typing experience, especially if you prefer linear switches with a smooth actuation and relatively quieter sound profile.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience. If you value a finely-tuned, high-pitched, clacky nuance with medium-light weighting and smooth actuation, the Bsun Kiki Red would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with silent operation and are not particular about specific sound or feel characteristics, the Outemu Silent Ocean could be more suitable. Ultimately, consider the typing experience you desire the most, whether it be subtle auditory feedback and finesse in performance, or a silent and effortless typing feel, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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