Cherry MX Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they offer different experiences for users. The Cherry MX Brown is a tactile switch that is known for its subtlety, offering a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean is a linear switch with no specific characteristics highlighted. While the Cherry MX Brown may be preferred for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with minimal noise, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean may appeal to users looking for a quieter and smoother 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean both utilize nylon in their bottom housing, which results in a similar deep and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound in both switches. However, the top housing of the MX Brown is made of nylon, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the MX Brown. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for better RGB lighting effects.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a unique and visually appealing look that is not present in the Cherry MX Brown. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the RGB lighting effects and adds a level of customization for users who enjoy personalizing their keyboards. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing may not offer the same visual flair, but it still provides a solid typing experience with its softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. While both switches use nylon in the bottom housing for a similar typing experience, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean sets it apart with its sharper and crisper sound profile. The Cherry MX Brown, on the other hand, provides a more classic typing experience with its nylon top housing. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a quality typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and visual appeal.
Weight
In comparing the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Cherry MX Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light in terms of keypress feel. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean features a similar actuation force of 45 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, falling into the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Cherry MX Brown may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more pronounced keystroke sensation may lean towards the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch. However, both switches offer a similar actuation force, so users can expect comparable results in terms of responsiveness when typing. Ultimately, the choice between a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. The MX Brown has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or individuals looking for a faster response time. Both switches provide tactile feedback, but the MX Brown offers a bit more travel distance for those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00, 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched characteristics, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches have no specific sound descriptors available, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it is important to note that sound perception can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, Cherry MX Brown switches are described as textured, with noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can be a preference for some users, providing a tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches, making it challenging to directly compare the two in this regard. If the Dustproof Silent Ocean switches have a similar textured feel to the MX Browns, users may experience a comparable typing experience.
Overall, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their subtle tactility and subdued sound profile, offering a light typing experience for users who prefer a more understated feel. While the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches lack specific information on sound and feel qualities, users may still find similarities if the switches offer a comparable level of tactility and sound dampening. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Brown tactile switches and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switches, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a lighter actuation force, gentle tactility, and subtle audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown switches are a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a linear typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences when it comes to typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and comfort level.
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