Haimu Neo White vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Haimu Neo White and the Outemu Silent Ocean both offer unique features to consider. The Neo White stands out with its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a distinctive typing feel that is both smooth and satisfying. Additionally, the rare use of a Ly stem contributes to its smooth actuation. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but is known for its silent operation. While the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', the Silent Ocean does not have a specific category. Each switch has its own strengths, but ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Haimu Neo White and the Outemu Silent Ocean utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as the light can shine through the housing to create a vibrant visual effect. In terms of sound and aesthetics, both switches offer similar benefits with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, the bottom housings of the Neo White and the Silent Ocean differ, with the Neo White using nylon and the Silent Ocean also opting for nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that can be pleasing to users looking for a more muted typing experience. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings, the specific design and construction may result in subtle differences in sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Haimu Neo White and Outemu Silent Ocean switches allows for a unique typing experience that balances sharpness and depth in sound. The polycarbonate top housings contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, especially when keys are released, while the nylon bottom housings have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings creates a harmonious balance that caters to different preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a unique feature of having no stated actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a light typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch requires 45 grams of actuation force, providing a slightly heavier touch while still maintaining a comfortable typing feel. When it comes to bottom out force, the Neo White requires 58 grams, which is on the lighter side, while the Silent Ocean needs 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. Overall, the Neo White offers a lighter typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions, while the Silent Ocean provides a more substantial feel, appealing to users who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so regardless of the force differences, users can expect similar performance in terms of smooth key actuation.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Silent Ocean has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neo White. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Neo White leaning towards the shorter end while the Silent Ocean falls closer to the standard 4.0mm distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Neo White with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press experience may lean towards the Silent Ocean with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on desired typing feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70, 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
Sound-wise, the Haimu Neo White switch offers a neutral profile, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it's worth noting that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors beyond just the switch itself.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Neo White switch provides a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable for most users. The slightly reduced total travel and smooth actuation contribute to a satisfying typing feel. Conversely, information on the typing feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is unavailable, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison.
Overall, if both switches are similar in terms of sound and feel, users can expect to achieve comparable results in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch will depend on individual preferences and priorities such as sound, feel, and any additional factors to consider when selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you should choose the Neo White if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a smoother actuation experience. The Neo White's medium weight and unique typing feel make it a great choice for those who value a satisfying and smooth keystroke. On the other hand, opt for the Silent Ocean if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of bottom out force and typing experience. Consider your preferences and typing style when making your decision.
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