Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Polaris Gray mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is a linear switch that is best known for its silent actuation and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is also a linear switch but is preferred by those who enjoy a bouncy typing feel and a clean, clacky sound profile. While the Dustproof Silent Ocean is categorized as silent and smooth, the Polaris Gray is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, but it ultimately comes down to personal taste. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Polaris Gray both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Dustproof Silent Ocean uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray.
Although both switches utilize polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing material between the Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Polaris Gray impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials means that the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key will be influenced by the top housing. This creates a unique blend of characteristics for each switch, with the Dustproof Silent Ocean offering a deeper sound profile due to its nylon bottom housing, and the Polaris Gray providing a sharper sound profile with its polycarbonate bottom housing.
In summary, while both the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and SP-Star Polaris Gray boast polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, their bottom housing materials differ, leading to distinct variations in sound and feel. The Dustproof Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper tone, absorbing more sound for a fuller sound profile, while the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a clear and resonant sound. These differences in housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and give each switch its unique characteristics and quirks.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force are notably different. The Dustproof Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Polaris Gray has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. This means that the Polaris Gray requires slightly more force to fully press down compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the better choice, as it has a slightly lower bottom out force. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Polaris Gray despite the slightly higher force required for bottoming out. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force, making them suitable options for different preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray provides a deeper and more robust feel when typing due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for either a faster, more responsive typing experience or a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer unique benefits, so selecting the one that aligns with your typing style and preferences will ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches offer different experiences. The Dustproof Silent Ocean switches are known for their silent operation, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches have a clean and clacky sound profile, with a low-pitched, neutral, and thocky tone that is more bass-heavy and satisfying when pressed. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is subjective and can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switches and the Polaris Gray switches also offer distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Silent Ocean switches have a feel that is yet to be described, while the Polaris Gray switches are known for their mild and polished characteristics. The mild feel of the Polaris Gray switches provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, while the polished finish results in smooth key travel and reduced friction. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches each have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Silent Ocean switches cater to those who prefer a silent typing experience, while the Polaris Gray switches are favored for their bouncy feel and clean, clacky sound profile. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If you enjoy one over the other, you can expect to get similar results in that aspect.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience preferences. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams and a sound profile that is not specifically highlighted, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bouncy typing experience with slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, along with a low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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