Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is clear that they each offer unique benefits to users. The Gateron Mini i stands out for its gentle tactility and fairly muted sound profile, making it an ideal choice for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. With descriptors like 'bouncy', 'easy-to-press', and 'subtle', this switch provides a comfortable typing experience without the intrusive clack often associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean's specific features are not as clearly defined. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Ocean both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housing, with the Mini i featuring a nylon top housing and bottom housing, while the Ocean uses a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. This means that the sound and feel of these switches will be affected differently depending on which part of the housing is being interacted with. The nylon top housing of the Mini i creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Ocean produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent polycarbonate top housing of the Ocean is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, whereas the opaque nylon housing of the Mini i offers a more traditional look.
On the other hand, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing material, which means that the sound and feel when pressing down on the keys will be similar between the two. The nylon material is known for its softer plastic composition, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This makes typing on switches with nylon bottom housing feel more cushioned and rounded, providing a comfortable typing experience for users of both the Mini i and the Ocean. While the top housing material may bring a different sound profile to each switch, the shared bottom housing material ensures that users will get similar results in terms of sound and feel while typing on either switch.
Overall, the difference in housing materials between the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Ocean allows for a unique typing experience for users. The combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing of each switch creates distinct sound profiles, with the Mini i offering a deeper and fuller sound while the Ocean provides a crisper and higher-pitched sound. The shared nylon bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing feel between the two switches, with its softer composition absorbing more sound and contributing to a more rounded typing experience. Whether you prefer the classic feel of nylon or the more modern aesthetic of polycarbonate, both the Mini i and the Ocean offer different qualities that cater to a variety of preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is clear that the Mini i is the lighter option. The Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Ocean has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it heavier than the Mini i. The bottom out force of the Ocean is unknown, so it is difficult to determine how it compares in terms of overall force required to type on the switch. Both switches offer their own advantages - with the Mini i providing a lighter feel for extended typing sessions, while the Ocean offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, we can see that the Mini i has a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm compared to the Ocean's 4mm. The Mini i's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Ocean's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, with the Mini i catering to those seeking a quicker touch, and the Ocean catering to those desiring a more deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for 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 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 that is moderate and suitable for various uses, whether in a professional setting or at home. It provides a satisfying feedback without being too loud, making it ideal for quiet environments. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is unknown, so we cannot make a direct comparison in this aspect. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, with a mild and subtle tactile feedback that is gentle on the fingers. This switch also offers a snappy and responsive feel, enhancing the typing experience and reducing fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is not specified, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this regard.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch excels in providing a comfortable and quiet typing experience with its neutral sound profile and bouncy, easy-to-press feel. While there is limited information available about the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, based on the qualities of the Gateron Mini i switch, it is likely that you can expect a similar level of comfort and responsiveness with the Outemu Ocean switch as well. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mini i tactile switch or the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it really comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a lightweight switch with a gentle tactility that is ideal for long hours of comfortable typing in a quiet office setting, then the Gateron Mini i would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for something with a different feel or sound profile that the Outemu Ocean provides, then that might be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what typing experience you are seeking and what environment you will be using the keyboard in.
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