Outemu Brown vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Brown and Outemu Ocean offer different typing experiences for users. The Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, provides a satisfying tactile bump while typing, making it ideal for those who prefer feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean, also a tactile switch, offers a smoother and quieter typing experience, making it suitable for those who want a more discreet 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
53g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Ocean lies in the material used for the bottom housing. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, the Browns utilize a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The Browns are known for their clear and resonant sound, thanks to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing, while the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in housing materials results in a unique typing experience for each switch.
However, despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Outemu Brown and Outemu Ocean switches share the same polycarbonate top housing. This means that users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal from both switches, as polycarbonate is known for its clear and sharp sound quality. The transparency of the polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light dispersion. While the bottom housing material may influence the depth and roundness of the sound, the top housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switch.
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Brown and Outemu Ocean switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound characteristics. The Browns offer a sharper and clearer typing experience due to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing, while the Oceans provide a deeper and fuller sound profile with the softer nylon bottom housing. Both switches are excellent choices for different preferences, and understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help users make an informed decision based on their typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is clear that the Brown is the lighter option with an actuation force of 53 grams compared to the Ocean's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Brown also requires a heavier force at 65 grams, whereas the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force is crucial as it determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures how much force is required to press the switch all the way down. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Brown for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may favor the heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer different options for users based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is consistent. Users can expect a similar experience in terms of key press depth and feel from both switches. The travel distance for both switches is equal, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a standard travel distance in their mechanical keyboards. Whether choosing the Outemu Brown or the Outemu Ocean, users can expect a consistent and familiar key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Brown and Ocean.
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 Outemu Brown tactile switch is often considered to have a softer and more muted sound compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch. The Brown switch is known for its quiet and subtle typing noise, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Ocean switch tends to have a slightly louder and crisper sound when pressed, giving a more pronounced tactile feedback. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Brown tactile switch is typically praised for its smooth and tactile typing experience. The Brown switch provides a gentle bump when pressed, giving a satisfying feedback to the typist without being too overwhelming. Similarly, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is also known for its tactile feedback, offering a slightly more pronounced bump compared to the Brown switch. This can result in a more noticeable tactile feel with each key press, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced typing experience.
Overall, both the Outemu Brown and Ocean tactile switches offer a tactile typing experience with subtle differences in sound and feel. While the Brown switch provides a softer and quieter typing sound with a gentler tactile bump, the Ocean switch offers a crisper sound and a slightly more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. It is important to try out both switches to determine which one best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you should consider your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile bump for a more tactile typing experience, the Outemu Brown switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother keystroke with no bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Ocean switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you while typing.
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