Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The MX Silent Red features a linear switch design that offers a slightly heftier feel while operating silently, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean also features a linear switch design but lacks any standout features in terms of noise reduction or tactile feedback. While the MX Silent Red is known for its muted, thocky, low-pitched, and textured typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean's characteristics remain undefined. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, one can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This means that users can expect a similar sound profile when typing on either switch, with a deeper and fuller sound created by the softer nylon material. However, the top housing materials differ, with the MX Silent Red using nylon while the Dustproof Silent Ocean uses polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean allows for RGB lighting to be more visible and vibrant, making it a visually appealing choice for users interested in customizable lighting effects. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a quieter typing experience. Both switches prioritize reducing noise, but achieve this goal through different means - the MX Silent Red through sound absorption and the Dustproof Silent Ocean through a sharper sound profile. Overall, both switches offer silent operation, but the material choices in their top housings lead to distinct sound characteristics.
In terms of typing experience, the choice between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean will come down to personal preference for sound profile. The softer nylon material in both switches' bottom housings contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the differences in top housing material create unique characteristics in the sound produced. Whether you prefer the duller and rounder sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer a quieter typing experience compared to traditional switches. Ultimately, users looking for a silent mechanical keyboard switch will find both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean to be suitable options, with the decision between the two likely coming down to individual sound preference.
Weight
The Cherry MX Silent Red and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switches both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light touch for quick and smooth typing. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Silent Ocean is heavier at 65 grams compared to the unavailable bottom out force of the MX Silent Red. This means that the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch requires more force to fully press down, giving a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. For users who prioritize lighter switches for longer typing sessions, the Cherry MX Silent Red may be the better option. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Silent Red switch. The shorter travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press feel. Both switches offer a silent typing experience, but the slight difference in travel distance may impact the overall typing feel for users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Silent Red switch is known for producing a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound, perfect for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is not available. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's design and keycaps used.
As for the feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as having a textured feel, providing a unique tactile feedback when typing. Unfortunately, details on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch are unknown. Depending on personal preferences, the textured feel of the Cherry MX Silent Red switch can enhance the typing experience for some users.
Overall, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience with a slightly heavier feel and a textured feedback, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch would be a suitable option. However, if you are interested in the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, it is recommended to try it out firsthand to determine how it compares in terms of sound and feel to make an informed decision. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results in terms of sound and feel depending on personal preferences and the setup they are used in.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switches, you should choose the MX Silent Red if you prioritize a silent typing experience with a slightly heftier feel. This switch is ideal for noise-sensitive environments where you want to maintain a satisfying typing experience without disturbing others. On the other hand, opt for the Dustproof Silent Ocean if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with dustproof features. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize silent operation or dustproof capabilities in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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