Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, there are some key differences to consider. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is known for its dustproof design, ensuring longevity and durability. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow is recognized for its silent operation, making it ideal for those who prioritize a quieter typing experience. While both switches offer their own unique advantages, such as dust protection and noise reduction, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and priorities when it comes to selecting the best switch for your mechanical keyboard. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Outemu Silent Yellow, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the way these materials are utilized in each switch can lead to different typing experiences. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing are felt more when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the impact of the polycarbonate top housing is more noticeable when releasing a key, affecting the sound produced when the key is released. This slight difference in how the housing materials influence typing could result in a nuanced preference for one switch over the other, depending on the desired sound and feel.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Outemu Silent Yellow both offer a mix of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials to enhance the typing experience. While the top housing's polycarbonate provides a sharper and crisper sound, the bottom housing's nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether choosing the Dustproof Silent Ocean with its nylon bottom housing for a rounder sound or the Silent Yellow with its nylon top housing for a crisper sound, both switches provide a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a pivotal role in determining the typing experience. The Dustproof Silent Ocean switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Silent Yellow switch requires a heavier 65 grams of force. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Dustproof Silent Ocean requires 65 grams of force, whereas the Silent Yellow demands 80 grams, indicating a heavier typing experience. The Dustproof Silent Ocean switch falls into the medium-heavy category in terms of force, while the Silent Yellow switch is classified as heavy. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to individual preferences - whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with the main difference lying in the weight of the force required to type.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch. The Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch offers a more traditional keypress with its longer travel distance, providing a deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether you prefer a shorter, more responsive keypress or a longer, more tactile keypress.
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 Silent Yellow.
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 producing a quiet and subtle sound when key presses are made, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is also known for its quiet operation, offering a noiseless typing experience. However, the sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard enclosure and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is recognized for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience. Similarly, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch offers a smooth and responsive feel, ensuring a comfortable typing session with each key press. Both switches deliver a tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing experience.
Overall, both the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch offer a quiet typing experience with smooth and responsive keystrokes. While the sound and feel may differ slightly between the two switches, users can expect similar levels of performance and comfort when using either one. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, but both options are reliable choices for those seeking a quieter mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Dustproof Silent Ocean with a bottom out force of 65 grams may be suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force, the Silent Yellow with a bottom out force of 80 grams could be the better option. Additionally, think about the sound and feel you desire in a switch as these factors can greatly impact your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you.