Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that is designed to provide a gentle tactility with each keystroke, offering a satisfying feedback without the loud clacking noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is ideal for office environments, providing a subtle and professional typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean is a linear switch with a smooth keystroke and minimal sound profile. While it may lack the tactility of the Gateron Mini i, it offers a quieter typing experience. Both switches have their own unique features and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and environments. 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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Ocean both feature nylon bottom housings, which offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound. This similarity means that typing on both switches will result in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. However, the Outemu Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, accompanied by a more resonant and clear sound due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This contrast in top housing materials offers a unique typing experience between the two switches.
The Gateron Mini i's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its bottom housing, resulting in a consistent typing experience across the switch. In comparison, the Outemu Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, complementing the duller and rounder sound from its nylon bottom housing. This difference in top housing materials allows for a more varied sound profile when typing on the switches, catering to different preferences for keyboard enthusiasts. Overall, while both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the distinction in top housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
With the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Ocean being different, the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, contributing to the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, adding another layer of complexity to the sound profile of the switches. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience that can cater to a variety of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident 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 ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more medium to heavy typing feel. Both switches require a different amount of force for actuation and bottom out, with the Mini i being lighter overall. However, if one prefers a similar typing experience, selecting the Silent Ocean and adjusting the settings accordingly can still result in a comparable level of force required. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter of the two switches compared to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Mini i offers a quicker response time for gamers who value speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean provides a more robust and deliberate key press due to its longer travel distance. Both switches have their own advantages and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy shorter travel distances for a fast response, the Mini i would be the better choice. If you prefer a bit more depth and feedback in your key presses, the Silent Ocean would be a suitable option.
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 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 that strikes a balance between actuation force and sound level, making it suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch's sound characteristics are unknown, but it is important to note that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Mini i switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, providing a range of typing experiences suited for different preferences. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is not specified. However, based on the Gateron Mini i's qualities, one can expect the Silent Ocean switch to also offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is known for its gentle tactility and muted sound profile, making it suitable for office use where quiet operation is important. With a variety of feel descriptors ranging from bouncy to stepped, the Mini i offers a customizable typing experience for users with different preferences. While information about the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is limited, it is likely to provide a similar level of comfort and functionality to the Gateron Mini i. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities that cater to different needs and preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you value a lightweight switch with gentle tactility and a quiet typing experience for an office environment, then the Gateron Mini i would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier actuation force and a linear feel, the Outemu Silent Ocean may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. Choose the switch that best aligns with your individual needs and typing style to enhance your overall typing experience.
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