Zuoce Lavender vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Silent Ocean are two options worth considering. The Zuoce Lavender is praised for its exceptional smoothness thanks to its proprietary Ly blend, providing a satisfying clacky sound signature with each keystroke. Classified as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', this switch offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean is a linear switch that does not have a standout feature but is known for its reliable performance. While the Lavender may appeal to those who prefer a tactile typing experience, the Silent Ocean could be a more straightforward option for those looking for a reliable linear switch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Silent Ocean, it is evident that their top housings differ significantly. The Lavender utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to be more prominent, adding an aesthetic element to the switch. Despite these differences, both materials offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Lavender's POM bottom housing and the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing each contribute to the sound profile of the switches in their own distinct ways. POM housings create a deep and pleasing sound, while nylon housings elicit a fuller and rounder sound profile. The choice between POM and nylon ultimately comes down to personal preference, as each material brings its own qualities to the typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper sound or a fuller sound, both switches offer housing materials that cater to different preferences.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing impacts the sound when the key is released. While the Lavender and Silent Ocean may differ in their housing materials, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper, more muted sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches have something to offer in terms of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, we can see some differences. The Lavender has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Silent Ocean, making it slightly heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Ocean requires 65 grams, while the Lavender only needs 53 grams, making the Silent Ocean heavier in this aspect. The Lavender provides a medium-light typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Silent Ocean offers a medium-heavy feel for those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Zuoce Lavender, while those who prefer a heavier, more tactile feel may opt for the Outemu Silent Ocean.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Silent Ocean switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Zuoce Lavender switch. The 4.0mm distance of the Silent Ocean is more traditional, offering a deeper feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the 3.4mm travel distance of the Lavender provides a slightly shorter and faster response time, which can be preferred by gamers for quick movements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a clacky and satisfying typing experience with its sharp and percussive sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown, making it difficult to compare in this aspect. Depending on factors like keyboard construction and keycaps, both switches may produce different sound profiles, but the Lavender's clacky nature is a standout feature.
In terms of feel, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press actuation, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal force required to register keystrokes. This feature enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. While the feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is not specified, if it offers a similar ease of actuation and typing comfort like the Lavender, users can expect a similarly satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Lavender and Outemu Silent Ocean linear switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lavender stands out for its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press actuation, providing a smooth and satisfying typing experience. While the sound and feel of the Silent Ocean switch are unknown, if it offers comparable qualities to the Lavender, users can expect a similar level of typing comfort and satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter touch with a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams and enjoy a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Lavender switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, and prioritize a silent typing experience, the Silent Ocean switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what factors matter most to you in your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
