Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it becomes clear that each has its own set of unique characteristics to offer. The Gateron Mini i is praised for its gentle tactility, making it a great option for office settings where a quiet yet satisfying typing experience is desired. With a fairly muted sound profile, these switches provide a comfortable typing experience without the distracting clack, embodying a quiet professionalism. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is known for its silence, perfect for environments where noise reduction is a priority. While the Dustproof Silent Ocean may lack the tactile feedback of the Gateron Mini i, its smooth linear action ensures a seamless 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This classic switch housing material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a more muted and rounded sound experience when typing. However, the Mini i utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean incorporates polycarbonate for its top housing. This difference in materials results in the Mini i producing a consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when releasing a key.
On the aesthetic front, the Dustproof Silent Ocean stands out with its clear polycarbonate top housing, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. The transparency of polycarbonate allows the RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i's nylon top housing offers a more subdued look without the translucent feature. However, both switches deliver a tactile typing experience thanks to their nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon material. While the Dustproof Silent Ocean's top housing may provide a more distinct sound upon key release, the overall typing experience remains fundamentally similar between the two switches due to their shared bottom housing material.
In terms of performance, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the top housing of a switch ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a sharper and clearer sound profile when releasing keys, the Dustproof Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing may be more appealing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more muted and rounded sound profile throughout the keystroke, the Gateron Mini i's all-nylon housing may be the better option. Regardless of the differences in top housing materials, both switches offer a tactile typing experience with the nylon bottom housing contributing to the overall sound profile. Whether you prioritize aesthetics or sound characteristics, both switches provide a solid typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is clear that the Mini i is lighter in both aspects. The Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light option for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Dustproof Silent Ocean for its higher bottom out force. However, for users looking for a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Mini i would be the better option. Overall, both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to the preferences of individuals who enjoy varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, slightly longer than the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Mini i may provide a slightly more substantial key press due to its longer travel distance, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a slightly shorter and potentially more abrupt feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for either a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments without being too loud or too quiet. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to compare.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, with a mild and subtle resistance that enhances the overall typing feel. The keys offer a snappy and stepped feedback, adding to the liveliness of each keystroke. As for the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, the feel of the switch is also unknown, making it challenging to make a direct comparison.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Mini i tactile switch is ideal for those looking for a lightweight and comfortable typing experience with a neutral sound profile, perfect for office settings. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch's characteristics remain a mystery, so it is difficult to determine how it compares to the Gateron Mini i switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the specific environment and typing preferences you have. If you are looking for a lightweight switch with a gentle tactility and a quiet sound profile, the Gateron Mini i switches are ideal for office settings where professionalism and comfort are priorities. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with no specific standout features in terms of feel or sound, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches may be more suitable for general use. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a gentle typing experience with subtle feedback or a more standard typing feel with a slightly heavier actuation force.
Mentioned in this article
