KTT Laurel vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note that both are linear switches offering a smooth keystroke experience. The KTT Laurel is praised for its medium-light feel, full POM housing, short travel distance, and long pole design, providing a balance of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, it boasts a subtly low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer quieter typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch remains silent during operation due to its specialized design, offering a noise-free typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The comparison between the KTT Laurel's POM housing and the Outemu Silent Ocean's polycarbonate housing reveals a significant difference in sound profiles. While the POM housing of the Laurel creates a deeper and more muted sound, the polycarbonate housing of the Silent Ocean offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with the POM housing providing a more subdued sound and the polycarbonate housing offering a more vibrant and clear sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind.
In terms of bottom housings, the Laurel's POM material and the Silent Ocean's nylon material also showcase contrasting characteristics. The POM bottom housing of the Laurel contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Ocean absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material can affect the overall typing experience, with the POM bottom housing providing a more robust sound and the nylon bottom housing offering a softer and more muted sound. It is important to consider these differences when choosing between the two switches based on sound preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Laurel and the Outemu Silent Ocean will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While the Laurel's POM housing creates a more muted sound, the Silent Ocean's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, the POM and nylon bottom housings of the Laurel and Silent Ocean, respectively, provide different sound profiles, with the POM contributing to a fuller sound and the nylon creating a duller sound. Overall, understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help users make an informed decision when selecting between these two switches.
Weight
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Laurel offers a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Silent Ocean provides a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a stronger typing experience. Both switches have similar actuation forces, so if you prefer a lighter typing experience, you could achieve similar results with either switch. However, if you prefer a heavier typing experience, the Silent Ocean would be the more suitable option due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Silent Ocean switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Laurel switch. A 3.5 mm travel distance is considered shorter and may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Silent Ocean switch offers a deeper key press sensation which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Laurel linear switch is known for its subtly low-pitched sound profile, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. This characteristic is often attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the overall typing sensation. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is not provided.
Overall, based on the available information, it can be concluded that the KTT Laurel linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing feel. Without information on the Silent Ocean switch's qualities, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, if the Silent Ocean switch is also a linear switch, it is likely to offer a similar typing experience to the Laurel in terms of smoothness and lack of tactile feedback. Remember to consider your personal preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a light touch, the KTT Laurel linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Laurel's medium-light bottom out force of 50 grams, full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design make it an excellent option for those who value responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, the subtly low-pitched sound profile of the Laurel adds to its appeal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing feel with a bottom out force of 65 grams, you may want to consider the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch. While less information is available about the Silent Ocean, its medium-heavy bottom out force and linear feel could be a good fit for those who prefer a slightly firmer keystroke. Ultimately, your decision between the Laurel and the Silent Ocean will depend on your personal preference for key feel, sound profile, and typing experience. Choose the one that best aligns with your preferences and typing style.
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