Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is best known for its dustproof feature, making it ideal for those who want added protection for their keyboard. It is a linear switch, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star is best known for its all-POM construction, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out force. This makes it a great choice for light typists seeking comfort while typing. The Purple Star also offers a low-pitched and easy-to-press feel. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the KTT Purple Star, we can see a clear difference in the top housing materials used. The Dustproof Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound compared to the Purple Star's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean is better suited for users looking for a more crisp and vibrant typing experience.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, both switches share similarities in their sound profiles. The Dustproof Silent Ocean features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's soft nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Purple Star's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. The use of these softer plastics in the bottom housing leads to a duller and rounder sound, which can be appealing to those looking for a more subdued typing experience.
It is important to consider how the housing materials of a switch can impact the overall typing experience. While the top housing material may have more of an effect on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In the case of the Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Purple Star, the different combinations of polycarbonate and nylon in the Dustproof Silent Ocean versus POM in both top and bottom housings of the Purple Star offer users a choice between a sharper, more resonant typing experience and a deeper, more muted sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Star is lighter in both aspects. The Dustproof Silent Ocean has a medium-heavy actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Purple Star has a light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Purple Star offers a lighter typing experience, which is suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Both switches provide different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users with varying preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a shorter travel distance compared to the Purple Star. For those who prefer a quicker response time and a shallower feel when typing or gaming, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the better option. On the other hand, the Purple Star offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press and feel. Both switches offer different experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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
In terms of sound, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is described as unknown, while the KTT Purple Star switch is known for its low-pitched sound signature. Low-pitched switches like the Purple Star typically provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch's tactile characteristics are unknown, whereas the KTT Purple Star switch is noted for its mild and easy-to-press nature. A mild switch like the Purple Star offers a gentler typing experience without extremely pronounced characteristics. The easy-to-press feature of the Purple Star means it requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. This low-impact typing feel can reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Considering all available information, it can be inferred that the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and KTT Purple Star switches offer different subjective qualities. The Dustproof Silent Ocean's sound and feel characteristics remain unknown, while the Purple Star switch is praised for its low-pitched sound and mild, easy-to-press feel. If you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature and require minimal force for key presses, the KTT Purple Star switch may be the ideal choice for you. However, without specific information on the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch's qualities, it may be challenging to directly compare it to the Purple Star switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a switch with silent operation, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the KTT Purple Star may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound, so take these factors into consideration when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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