Outemu Dustproof Red vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Outemu Silent Ocean both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Red is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth actuation and lack of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean, also a linear switch, is recognized for its quiet operation and smooth keystrokes. While the Dustproof Red may be preferred for its reliability and durability, the Silent Ocean is favored for its silent operation, making it ideal for office or shared environments. 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
60g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Outemu Silent Ocean, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches intended for RGB lighting. However, they differ in their bottom housing material, with the Dustproof Red utilizing a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent Ocean also features a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect.
The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound as you type on the switches. This results in a more satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a quieter and less sharp sound. The differences in sound characteristics between the top and bottom housing materials create a unique typing experience for each switch, catering to a variety of preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, while both the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Outemu Silent Ocean share similar polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and resonant sound profile, their differences lie in the utilization of nylon for the bottom housing. This results in distinct sound qualities when typing on each switch, with the nylon contributing to a fuller and deeper sound compared to the polycarbonate. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Dustproof Red or a quieter sound with the Silent Ocean, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Red has a slightly lighter force of 60 grams compared to the Silent Ocean's heavier force of 65 grams. This means that while both switches will feel similar when initially pressing a key, the Silent Ocean will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Dustproof Red may be the better option, while those who prefer a more solid and firm typing experience may lean towards the Silent Ocean. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. The Dustproof Red and the Silent Ocean are equal in this aspect, allowing users to enjoy consistent key travel and feedback regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Dustproof Red or the Silent Ocean, you can expect to get the same result when it comes to travel distance.
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 Red 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 Red linear switch is known for being relatively quiet compared to other linear switches, with a smooth and muted typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is designed specifically to minimize noise, offering a nearly silent typing experience that is ideal for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. The Silent Ocean switch utilizes dampening materials to reduce the sound of both bottoming out and the upstroke, resulting in a significantly quieter typing experience compared to the Dustproof Red switch.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a linear switch with a light actuation force. The Silent Ocean switch, on the other hand, offers a similar smooth keystroke experience but with a slightly softer and more cushioned feel due to the dampening materials used in its design. This can result in a typing experience that feels gentler and more comfortable on the fingers compared to the Dustproof Red switch.
Overall, while both the Outemu Dustproof Red and Silent Ocean switches offer a smooth typing experience, the Silent Ocean switch stands out for its nearly silent operation and softer feel. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience, the Silent Ocean switch would be the ideal choice for your mechanical keyboard. However, if you prefer a more traditional linear switch with a slightly lighter actuation force, the Dustproof Red switch would still provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you should consider the level of bottom out force that you prefer. The Dustproof Red has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter feel. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, which can provide a more stable typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Additionally, for those who prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ocean may be the preferable choice due to its noise reduction features. However, if you prioritize a smooth and consistent typing feel, the Dustproof Red may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific qualities that are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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