Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and Akko Penguin represent two distinct yet appealing options for users seeking different typing experiences. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is known for its smooth linear action, devoid of tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for gamers who prioritize rapid keystrokes and minimal interruption during gameplay. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin introduces a silent tactile experience, ideal for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. With a gentle tactile bump and a medium weight, the Akko Penguin switches offer satisfying feedback while remaining quiet, making them perfect for extended typing sessions without undue strain. Each switch caters to different preferences—whether you value the seamless glide of a linear switch or the subtle feedback of a tactile option. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Akko Penguin, one of the most significant differences lies in their top housing materials. The Dustproof Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucency. This material contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience, particularly in terms of the acoustic feedback produced during key presses. The ability of polycarbonate to allow RGB lighting to shine through also adds to its aesthetic appeal, making it an attractive option for users who enjoy customizable lighting effects. In contrast, the Akko Penguin utilizes a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively. As a result, the sound profile produced is deeper and rounder, lending a different character to the auditory feedback of the switches.
Despite the notable difference in their top housing materials, the bottom housings of both switches signify more common ground. Both the Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Akko Penguin feature nylon in their bottom housings, making this comparison particularly interesting. The nylon composition contributes to a fuller, deeper sound profile during typing, as its softer properties tend to absorb sound rather than amplify it. Thus, both switches may provide a satisfying response to users when they bottom out the keys, as the nylon material aids in achieving a muted sound that many users find pleasing. This nuanced design decision highlights how both models can produce similar auditory characteristics from the bottom housing, even though their top housings present distinctly different sound profiles.
Ultimately, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and Akko Penguin differ in their top housing materials, they share a synergy in their nylon bottom housing that creates a cohesive typing experience. The combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in the Silent Ocean aims to deliver both vibrancy and depth, while the nylon top in the Penguin emphasizes richness in auditory feedback. Users seeking an aggressive sound profile might prefer the sharper quality of the polycarbonate top, whereas those inclined towards a warmer and fuller experience could find the nylon configuration in the Penguin more appealing. This division of sound characteristics between the top and bottom housings showcases how material choices influence both the tactile and auditory aspects of a mechanical switch, creating a rich tapestry of experiences in the realm of customization and personal preference.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Dustproof Silent Ocean switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicative of a medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as medium. This means that the Outemu switch has a heavier overall feel, which could appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the lighter force of the Akko Penguin may cater to prolonged use, making it a potentially better option for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, users looking for a balance between typing comfort and resistance will likely find distinct experiences between these two switches, with the Dustproof Silent Ocean providing a heavier touch and the Akko Penguin offering a lighter option.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, meaning they provide the same amount of key travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect a similar feel and actuation point when pressing down on either switch, which may enhance consistency in typing and gaming experiences. Since both switches have equal travel distances, they cater to those who appreciate a uniform key press response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 switch does not have an established characteristic. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch is designed to be muted and neutral, producing a softer and quieter sound profile compared to more traditional, clacky mechanical switches. This makes the Penguin switch particularly suitable for office environments or shared spaces where minimizing noise is crucial. The muted nature of the Penguin switch helps reduce the typical mechanical keyboard clatter, allowing for a more discrete typing experience, while its neutral sound profile makes it versatile for various usage scenarios, whether at home or in a professional setting.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch lacks a specific description, leaving its tactile characteristics open to interpretation. However, the Akko Penguin switch is characterized by a polished and smooth typing experience, attributed to its refined materials and potentially factory lubrication. This results in reduced friction and effortless key travel, making it suitable for long typing sessions. The Penguin's tactile bump is described as mild and rounded, providing gentle feedback without being overwhelming. Furthermore, the feathery quality of this switch translates to a light actuation force, minimizing finger fatigue, while the subtle resistance ensures a comfortable typing experience with a gentle tactile sensation.
Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that serve different preferences. The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean may appeal to those who seek an unknown experience, while the Akko Penguin offers a known, muted sound profile and a pleasant, polished feel. For those using the Penguin in environments where quietness is essential, the Akko switch stands out with its thoughtful design, making it a reliable choice for productivity without sacrificing touch responsiveness. If you prioritize sound and tactile feedback, opting for the Penguin might be the best direction to take, especially in environments requiring noise control.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch largely depends on your specific typing needs and preferences. If you're seeking a quiet yet smooth typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean might be the better choice, especially if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, which can provide a more deliberate feel during typing. However, keep in mind that specific descriptions of its sound and feel weren't provided, so you might want to consider testing it out to ensure it fits your comfort level. On the other hand, if you value a tactile feedback with minimized noise—particularly in shared or office environments—the Akko Penguin switch is an excellent option. With its 60 grams of bottom-out force, you can enjoy a polished and mild typing experience that allows for longer sessions without causing finger fatigue. The Penguin's rounded tactile bump provides satisfying feedback while maintaining a muted sound profile, making it ideal for both work and home use. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, so choose based on the environment in which you'll be typing most and the type of feedback you prefer.
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