Zuoce Lavender vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, the Lavender stands out for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature right out of the box. The Lavender is an easy-to-press linear switch that provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Ocean switch lacks specific standout features or characteristics but is categorized as a tactile switch. If you prefer a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Lavender may be the right choice for you. 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
48g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Ocean both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, with the Lavender featuring POM top and bottom housings, while the Ocean has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Lavender creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Ocean produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Ocean contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the POM bottom housing of the Lavender.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Ocean allows for RGB lighting to shine through, providing a visually appealing element that the Zuoce Lavender's POM housing may not offer. Additionally, the stiffer nature of the polycarbonate material in the Ocean's top housing results in a more clear and resonant sound profile when the key is released, compared to the more muted sound of the POM top housing in the Lavender. However, when it comes to typing experience, the softer nylon bottom housing of the Ocean absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Lavender retains its deep and muted sound characteristics.
Overall, the choice between the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Ocean housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, such as the deeper sound profile of POM or the crisper sound of polycarbonate, users may find they get similar results in terms of typing experience depending on the combination of top and bottom housing materials selected. Ultimately, it is important to consider how the housing materials of each switch will impact the overall feel and sound when deciding between the two options.
Weight
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Lavender requiring 53 grams and the Ocean force being unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lavender switch would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, the Ocean switch offers a more substantial feel with its heavier actuation force, providing a stronger push for those who prefer a more intense typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is clear that the Lavender has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Ocean has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender's shorter travel distance may be preferred by those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers, due to the shorter distance the switch needs to travel. On the other hand, the Ocean's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and tactile feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the Lavender being the shorter option and the Ocean being the longer option. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on the individual's preferences for responsiveness and depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and satisfying noise with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown. However, keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a smooth typing experience. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing fatigue during long typing sessions. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch are not available.
Considering the information provided, it is clear that the Zuoce Lavender linear switch excels in both sound and feel aspects, with a clacky sound signature and an easy-to-press typing experience. While the specifics of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch are unknown, it is important to note that subjective preferences play a significant role in determining the best switch for individual users. If you enjoy the qualities of the Lavender switch, you may find similar satisfaction with the Ocean switch, based on its tactile nature. Ultimately, trying out different switches and finding what suits your typing style and preferences best is the key to a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize smoothness and a satisfying clacky sound with a medium-light bottom out force, the Lavender switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an easy-to-press feel and do not mind the lack of bottom out force information, the Ocean switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Happy typing!
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