Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch for your setup, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Outemu Silent Ocean both offer unique features worth considering. The MX Speed Silver boasts rapid response time due to its linear action and low spring resistance, making it an ideal choice for gamers looking to gain an edge in competitive environments where speed is crucial. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean provides a quieter typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle key press. 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
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Ocean, the most significant difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This variance in top housing material directly influences the overall sound produced by the switches, catering to different preferences for sound and typing experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Ocean use nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This similarity in bottom housing material means that the typing experience and sound profile produced by both switches will be relatively similar when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel. Despite the differences in top housing material, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound experience when pressing down on the keys of both switches.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Ocean housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, the Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches share a common ground with their nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a clearer and resonant sound, the housing materials of these switches play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch reveals some notable differences. The MX Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the actuation force of the Silent Ocean is heavier at 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the MX Speed Silver's force is unknown, while the Silent Ocean has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. For those who prefer a light typing experience for long periods of time, the MX Speed Silver would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Silent Ocean due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer unique experiences, with the MX Speed Silver being lighter and the Silent Ocean being heavier, providing options for different preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is clear that the Cherry MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Silent Ocean's 4 mm. The MX Speed Silver's shorter travel distance is ideal for gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Silent Ocean's longer travel distance may be preferred by those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of tactile feedback, with the shorter travel distance providing a more responsive feel and the longer travel distance offering a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
The Outemu 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 Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, there is no information available on the sound qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as textured, indicating that it may offer some friction when pressed. This texture can provide feedback to the user and is preferred by some, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch.
Overall, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is designed for maximum speed and instant triggering, making it ideal for gamers looking for rapid responses. On the other hand, the qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch remain unknown. If you are looking for a similar experience to the Cherry MX Speed Silver, you may find comparable results with the Outemu Silent Ocean, but it's always best to try out different switches to find the one that best suits your preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you prioritize speed and instant response, especially in gaming scenarios where every millisecond matters, the MX Speed Silver may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ocean switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific needs and usage requirements.
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