Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black 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 Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Silent Ocean are two popular options to consider. The Dustproof Black is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth keypress and dustproof design, making it a reliable choice for long-lasting performance. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean is also a linear switch that is best known for its silent operation, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While both switches offer unique advantages, such as the Dustproof Black's durability and the Silent Ocean's noise reduction, it ultimately comes down to personal preference 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Silent Ocean feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the housings allows for better translucency, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent sound profile and aesthetic experience when using either of these switches.
In contrast, the Dustproof Black and the Silent Ocean differ in their bottom housing materials. The Dustproof Black utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures users will experience a consistent typing experience across both switches.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the qualities of each material are divided between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings highlights the importance of selecting the right combination of materials to achieve the desired typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Additionally, the Dustproof Black has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, while the Silent Ocean has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Dustproof Black switch will provide a more substantial typing experience due to the higher actuation and bottom out forces, perfect for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a heavier or lighter typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is equal for both. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and feedback when using either switch. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches ensures a consistent typing experience for those who prefer linear switches. Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Silent Ocean switches offer the same travel distance, making them suitable options for users seeking a specific key feel.
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 Dustproof Black and Silent 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
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is renowned for its smooth actuation and consistent keystrokes, making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable typing experience without any distracting tactile feedback. On the sound front, it is known for its quiet operation, allowing for a more discreet typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is also lauded for its smooth and consistent feel, providing a similar typing experience to the Dustproof Black. The Silent Ocean is specifically designed to minimize noise during typing, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a quieter keyboard.
When it comes to feel, both the Dustproof Black and the Silent Ocean linear switches offer a smooth and consistent typing experience. Their linear design means there is no tactile bump or audible click during actuation, resulting in a straightforward keystroke that is preferred by many typists for its simplicity and ease of use. Whether you choose the Dustproof Black or the Silent Ocean, you can expect a similar feel in terms of smoothness and responsiveness, allowing you to focus on your typing without any distractions.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their smooth actuation and consistent feel. While the Dustproof Black is known for its quiet operation, the Silent Ocean takes it a step further by offering a noise-minimizing design for an even quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound level and specific typing needs, but rest assured that you'll get a reliable and consistent typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a heavier switch, then the Dustproof Black with its 80-gram bottom out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Silent Ocean with its 65-gram bottom out force may be more suitable. Additionally, consider the sound and feel of the switches to see which one aligns more with your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences. Happy typing!
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