Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Polaris Purple offer unique typing experiences. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is a linear switch, known for its smooth and quiet key presses. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that features a pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing sensation with a snappy sound profile. While the Dustproof Silent Ocean is ideal for those who prefer a silent typing experience, the Polaris Purple is perfect for individuals who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing. 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the Dustproof Silent Ocean features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which also contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile while offering a different tactile feel.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the Dustproof Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Polaris Purple results in varying sound profiles and tactile experiences when typing on each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound, contributing to a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile, providing a different tactile feel while typing. This distinction showcases how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall performance and user experience of a mechanical switch.
Overall, while both the Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Polaris Purple share polycarbonate top housings, their differing bottom housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The combination of materials in each switch results in a unique typing experience, with the top housing impacting the sound upon key release and the bottom housing influencing the sound and feel upon bottoming out a key. Whether the properties of the materials create a deeper, fuller sound profile (nylon) or a crisper, resonant sound profile (polycarbonate), both switches offer different qualities that cater to individual preferences and typing styles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it can be observed that the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Polaris Purple, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Dustproof Silent Ocean rated at 65 grams and the Polaris Purple at 67 grams. This means that while the Dustproof Silent Ocean may provide a slightly lighter typing experience, both switches offer a similar resistance when fully pressed. The choice between the two switches may ultimately come down to individual preference, with some users preferring the lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Silent Ocean for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Polaris Purple for a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Polaris Purple. The Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast key presses. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple provides a deeper key press with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences for key press depth and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance in keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Purple 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 Purple 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 Dustproof Silent Ocean switch lacks a standout characteristic, while the Polaris Purple switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The tactile bump on the Polaris Purple switch adds a satisfying click that can enhance the typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch doesn't have a defined feel, whereas the Polaris Purple switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The tactile bump on the Polaris Purple switch, combined with its smooth and refined finish, offers a comfortable and approachable typing feel that can appeal to a broad audience. The Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may provide a more standard typing experience in comparison.
In conclusion, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may offer a standard typing experience with neutral sound characteristics, the Polaris Purple switch stands out with its tactile bump and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel during typing. Both switches are suitable for various typing tasks, so you can expect similar results in terms of performance and reliability.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience, you may want to choose the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch. The medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams along with the lack of a tactile bump makes it great for a consistent and peaceful typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a satisfying bump, then the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be a better choice. The medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams combined with the pronounced tactile bump gives you an exhilarating typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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