Gateron Mars vs. Outemu Ocean

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference, especially between the Gateron Mars and Outemu Ocean switches. The Gateron Mars, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize uninterrupted typing or gaming experiences. Its unique design showcases a POK stem and a housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM, contributing to its durability and performance. Conversely, the Outemu Ocean, known for its tactile feedback, caters to users who enjoy a noticeable bump during each keystroke, offering a more engaging typing experience. While the tactile response can help improve typing accuracy and provide satisfying feedback, the Mars switch's streamlined design appeals to those seeking a fluid motion. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prefer the smoothness of a linear switch like the Gateron Mars or the tactile nature of the Outemu Ocean. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Mars Linear

Outemu Ocean Tactile

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Mars and Outemu Ocean switches employ distinct materials for their top housings, significantly affecting their sound profiles. The Gateron Mars features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer texture, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a more muted and rounded auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and leads to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances light passage, making it a favored choice for RGB illumination in mechanical keyboards. Thus, while both switches can produce satisfying sound experiences, they do so through very different auditory characteristics driven by their respective materials.

In terms of bottom housing, the Gateron Mars uses POM, which is known for creating a deeper, more muted sound that complements its nylon top housing's characteristics. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean integrates a nylon bottom housing, which parallels the Mars's top housing by providing a fuller auditory profile. Despite the opposing materials in the top housings, the Ocean can still achieve a similar deep sound when bottoming out due to its nylon bottom. This demonstrates that while material combinations differ between the switches, they can still yield comparable sound profiles depending on how each housing interacts during gameplay or typing.

The interaction between the top and bottom housings ultimately influences the overall sound experience of each switch. In switches where the top and bottom materials are different, like in the case of the Mars with nylon on top and POM at the bottom, the resulting sound is a unique mixture of the two materials' properties. Conversely, the Ocean's combination of nylon on the bottom and polycarbonate on the top exemplifies how different materials can still lead to a cohesive auditory profile, albeit with a sharper attack when releasing keys. Typing on either switch will exhibit particular strengths based on their material contrasts, but the engaging experience is crafted through the unique amalgamation of these property effects, whether they are aligned or differentiated between top and bottom housings.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch with the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, we observe that the Mars has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Ocean requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This means that typists and gamers looking for a lighter touch may prefer the Mars, as it allows for more comfortable extended use without fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a stronger tactile response might favor the Ocean due to its greater actuation force, which can provide a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, making a direct comparison on that front impossible. Thus, while the actuation forces differ significantly, making the Mars easier to press, the exact bottom out experiences remain a mystery for both switches.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, we find that the Mars has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ocean measures 4 mm. This distinction reveals that the Outemu Ocean offers a longer travel distance, which can appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial keypress feel and prefer a hearty depth in their typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mars, with its shorter distance, is likely to provide a quicker, more responsive experience, making it an attractive choice for gamers who prioritize fast reaction times. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference: if you favor responsiveness, the Mars may be the better option, whereas those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke may lean toward the Ocean.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Mars switch is characterized by its smooth and subtle acoustic profile, producing a gently muted thock when bottoming out that can be pleasing for many users seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean switch does not have a well-documented sound characteristic, leaving an element of uncertainty regarding its auditory feedback. Ultimately, while both switches may create a distinct sound profile influenced by their respective keycaps and keyboard, the certainty of the Mars's acoustic performance provides a more predictable auditory experience.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Mars switch offers a silky smooth linear sensation, allowing for comfortable and uninterrupted key presses ideal for rapid typing or gaming. Conversely, the Outemu Ocean switch's tactile nature is designed to provide a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which can enhance typing accuracy for users who prefer feedback with each keystroke. Despite the different tactile feedback mechanisms, both switches aim to provide a unique experience tailored to the preferences of various users.

In summary, the Gateron Mars and Outemu Ocean switches cater to different facets of mechanical keyboard enjoyment. While the Mars excels in delivering a smooth, linear feel and a predictable sound, the Ocean introduces a tactile profile that may appeal to users seeking feedback during operation. Ultimately, your choice would depend on the sensory experience you prioritize—smoothness and quieter operation with the Mars or the tactile feedback offered by the Ocean. Each switch brings its own strengths to the table, and exploring them will help you find the perfect fit for your typing style.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, your choice should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you want to achieve. If you prefer a smooth, consistent keystroke for fast-paced typing or gaming, the Gateron Mars, with its innovative POK stem and durable nylon and POM housing, would be an excellent choice; it's designed to minimize friction and provide an effortlessly linear feel. On the other hand, if you enjoy the tactile feedback that provides a satisfying bump to each keystroke, enhancing your typing accuracy and enjoyment, the Outemu Ocean is the better option. It offers a pronounced tactile sensation that is often preferred for writing or tasks requiring more deliberate keystrokes. Ultimately, consider your typing style—whether you favor speed and smoothness or tactile feedback—to select the switch that will provide the most comfort and efficiency for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Mars Linear

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Ocean Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more