TKC Kiwi vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider your preference for tactile feedback versus a linear typing experience. The TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that enhances the typing experience. It comes lightly factory lubed for a smooth and effortless typing feel right out of the box. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean is a linear switch that lacks a tactile bump, offering a more consistent keystroke with no audible click. While the Kiwi excels in providing tactile feedback and a more immersive typing experience, the Silent Ocean offers a quieter and more seamless keystroke. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Silent Ocean, we see that both switches use newer materials for their top housings. The Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE, which offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks while typing. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. Both materials contribute to a clear and resonant sound profile, albeit with slightly different characteristics. However, if you are looking to maximize RGB lighting capabilities, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Ocean may be more appealing due to its translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Kiwi uses UHWMPE for its bottom housing, providing a bright sound signature similar to that of its top housing. In contrast, the Silent Ocean's bottom housing is made of nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Ocean may offer a more rounded and dull sound compared to the bright sound signature of the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing.
Overall, the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Silent Ocean play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches utilize newer materials for their top housing, they differ in their bottom housing materials with the Kiwi featuring UHWMPE and the Silent Ocean utilizing nylon. These materials contribute to the switches' overall sound characteristics, with the Kiwi offering a brighter sound profile and the Silent Ocean providing a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with resonant clacks or a deeper and rounder sound, the choice between these two switches will ultimately come down to your personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is slightly lighter at 43 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Kiwi is heavier at 67 grams, while the Silent Ocean is slightly lighter at 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Kiwi for a more comfortable typing experience over long periods of time. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean may be more suitable for individuals who enjoy a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing feedback. In either case, users can expect a similar overall experience from these switches due to their comparable actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect to feel the key travel a total of 4mm from the top to the bottom. This consistency in travel distance ensures that users will receive similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either switch. Therefore, there is no significant difference in travel distance between the two, making them equally suitable for those looking for a keyboard switch with a 4mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10.
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 TKC Kiwi tactile switch stands out for its low-pitched sound profile, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing sessions. This, combined with its neutral actuation force requirement, makes it a versatile option suitable for various users and environments. Additionally, the Kiwi offers a stepped feel with accented tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience with smooth key travel due to its polished finish. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch lacks specific information regarding sound and feel qualities.
Overall, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is a well-rounded option for those seeking a tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile and satisfying feel. While the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch may offer similar results in terms of sound and feel, the lack of detailed information makes it difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is seeking.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, along with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and factory lubing for smooth typing, then the Kiwi may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a silent operation, the Silent Ocean could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
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