Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Outemu Maple Leaf. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience without the tactile feedback or audible clicks of a tactile switch. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf is a tactile switch, offering a noticeable bump and satisfying feedback with each keystroke. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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 Silent Ocean and the Outemu Maple Leaf, we see that both switches have a nylon bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. However, the Dustproof Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Maple Leaf utilizes a nylon top housing, offering a similar deeper sound but with a slightly softer and duller tone compared to the polycarbonate top of the Dustproof Silent Ocean.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of housing material also plays a significant role. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing does not offer this feature but still provides a classic look and feel. While both switches have similar nylon bottom housings, the choice of top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and visual appeal.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Outemu Maple Leaf contribute to their unique sound profiles and aesthetics. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, their top housing materials differ significantly. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf offers a softer and duller tone. Overall, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience and visual appeal of these switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Silent Ocean is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Maple Leaf's 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, both switches require the same amount of force at 65 grams. This means that while the actuation force differs between the two switches, the typing experience when fully pressing down the keys is similar. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Silent Ocean for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the stronger push feel of the Maple Leaf for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is the same at 3.3 mm. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar feel in terms of keypress depth when typing. This means that whether you choose the Dustproof Silent Ocean or the Maple Leaf, you can expect consistent performance in terms of travel distance. This aspect of the switches is one where they are essentially identical, making them both reliable choices for users looking for a specific keypress depth in their mechanical keyboard.
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 Silent Ocean and Maple Leaf.
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 Silent Ocean linear 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 Maple Leaf tactile switch is also known for its relatively low sound profile, providing a soft and satisfying typing sound without being too loud. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is praised for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, offering a fluid typing experience that is ideal for prolonged use. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is appreciated for its tactile bump that provides feedback to the typist, letting them know when a key press has been registered. Both switches offer a unique typing sensation, with the Dustproof Silent Ocean focusing on smoothness and the Maple Leaf emphasizing tactile feedback.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it becomes apparent that they each have their own advantages. Whether you prioritize sound or feel in a mechanical keyboard switch, both options offer a high-quality typing experience that is sure to meet your preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to the specific typing experience you are looking for, but rest assured that you will achieve satisfactory results with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smoother keypress, then the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch would be a better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback with a bit of resistance during typing, then the Maple Leaf switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should be based on how you want your keyboard to feel and sound as you type.
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