Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown 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 Brown and Outemu Silent Ocean offer different typing experiences to suit various preferences. The Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch, providing users with a noticeable bump feedback when pressed, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean is a linear switch, offering a smooth and quiet keystroke without the tactile bump, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths and weaknesses, and choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference. 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
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Brown and Outemu Silent Ocean switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. While the top housings of both switches are the same material, the difference lies in their nylon bottom housings. The Dustproof Brown's bottom housing, made of nylon, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softness and ability to absorb sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound profile, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Outemu Silent Ocean switches result in distinct characteristics. The stiff polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and crisp sound when pressing down on the switch, while the softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, producing a deeper and fuller typing experience. The difference in sound quality between the two switches lies in the nuances of how the top and bottom housings interact with each other. While the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down.
Overall, the use of different materials in the housing of the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Outemu Silent Ocean switches offers a variety in sound profiles and typing experiences. Both switches benefit from the qualities of polycarbonate in the top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. The nylon bottom housing in each switch contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, with the Silent Ocean providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the Dustproof Brown. Despite these differences, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in both switches ensures a satisfying typing experience with unique acoustic characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in terms of weight. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke and pressing all the way down on both switches. While the Dustproof Brown may offer a tactile feedback due to its tactile nature, the Silent Ocean provides a smooth linear feel. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience, with the Dustproof Brown being more tactile and the Silent Ocean offering a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a tactile feedback or a linear feel, as both switches offer a similar level of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either key, users will experience a similar amount of travel before the switch fully actuates. Despite having different tactile and linear characteristics, both switches offer the same level of travel distance, providing consistent feedback and responsiveness. Therefore, whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Dustproof Brown or the smoothness of the Silent Ocean, you can expect the same level of travel distance with either switch.
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 Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a great option for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is also designed to reduce noise, offering a whisper-quiet typing experience that won't disturb those around you. Both switches provide a smooth and satisfying sound without the loud clickiness often associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch offers a tactile bump during actuation, providing feedback to signal when a keypress has been registered. This can enhance typing accuracy and overall typing experience for those who prefer a tactile response. Conversely, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch provides a linear feel, with a smooth keystroke from start to finish, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers who require quick and consistent key presses.
Overall, both the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Brown provides a tactile typing experience with quiet operation, perfect for those who value feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switch offers a smooth and quiet linear feel, making it a great choice for those who prioritize speed and consistency in their typing or gaming sessions. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, both switches are reliable options that can enhance your overall typing experience on a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch or the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is important to take into account your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with dustproofing capabilities, the Dustproof Brown may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a linear switch with the same bottom out force and are looking for a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ocean may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and noise level.
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