Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Light Tactile to the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, we can see clear differences in their key characteristics. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is highly regarded for its gentle tactility, providing a smooth typing experience with a soft sound signature. In contrast, the Silent Ocean from Outemu offers a linear feel with no audible feedback. Those seeking a quieter typing experience may prefer the Silent Ocean, while those who enjoy a more tactile typing sensation might lean towards the Light Tactile. 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
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Silent Ocean, it becomes clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches opt for nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Silent Ocean differ in their overall sound profiles due to their use of nylon for the bottom housing. The Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper sound, while the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller sound experience. This contrast showcases how the choice of housing materials can impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of a switch. While the top housing primarily affects the sound when keys are released, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel.
Ultimately, the use of different housing materials in the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Silent Ocean results in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The combination of polycarbonate top housing for a sharp sound and nylon bottom housing for a deep sound in the Light Tactile contrasts with the Silent Ocean's utilization of the same materials to achieve similar results. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in the overall performance and sound quality of mechanical switches, as each material brings unique properties that impact the typing experience.
Weight
The Durock Light Tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Ocean switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Light Tactile at 67 grams and the Silent Ocean at 65 grams. This means that while the Light Tactile may require a bit more force to initially activate, both switches will provide a similar typing experience once the key is fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Ocean may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the slightly heavier Durock Light Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that users will get consistent results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing feel. The similarity in travel distance between the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches allows for a comparable typing experience, with both switches offering a comfortable and responsive feel to users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and scenarios. The gentle tactility of this switch, paired with a jelly-like sound signature, creates a pleasant typing experience that is not overly loud or distracting. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Light Tactile switch is known for its mild and polished typing experience. The gentle tactile bump of this switch, combined with a smooth and refined finish, results in a comfortable and approachable typing experience. The qualities of the Light Tactile switch fall within a safe middle-ground zone, making it a versatile choice for users of varying preferences. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a gentle and pleasant typing experience with a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. While information on the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is limited, it is evident that the Light Tactile switch provides a unique combination of tactility and sound that may be appealing to newcomers in the mechanical keyboard community. Overall, both switches may offer similar results in terms of typing comfort and versatility, but the distinct qualities of the Light Tactile switch make it a standout choice for those seeking a refined and gentle typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch or the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you should opt for the Light Tactile if you prefer a gentle tactility with a jelly-like sound signature. This switch is best suited for those who enjoy a smoother and more refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Silent Ocean may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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