Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Gateron Quinn offer distinct typing experiences for users. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is best known for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quiet typing environment. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn is recognized for its crisp, light tactile bump and deep, resonant sound profile, adding character to the typing experience. While the Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a smooth linear feel, the Quinn switch offers a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke. 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
59g
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
3.40 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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Gateron Quinn, we see that the Dustproof Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiff nature. In contrast, the Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the materials differ in their impact on sound, both switches provide unique auditory experiences based on their top housing material.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Gateron Quinn feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, effectively creating a duller and rounder sound. While the top housing may impact the sound as keys are released, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Despite the slight difference in top housing materials, the similarity in bottom housing materials ensures that both switches offer comparable sound profiles in certain aspects.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches such as the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Gateron Quinn plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While the Dustproof Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing produces a clear and resonant sound, the Quinn's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. On the other hand, both switches share nylon bottom housings, resulting in a common deep and full sound profile. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on switch performance can help individuals make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch are similar in terms of being medium-heavy. The Dustproof Silent Ocean has a lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Quinn's 59 grams, while their bottom out forces are closer, with the Dustproof Silent Ocean at 65 grams and the Quinn at 67 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Quinn for its slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-heavy feel that provides a balance between sensitivity and resistance during typing.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, indicating they are designed for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, resulting in similar user experiences in terms of key press feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 doesn't have a specific reputation, while the Gateron Quinn switch is known for its bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profile. This means that the Quinn switch offers a deeper, richer, and more immersive auditory experience compared to the unknown sound qualities of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch. Depending on the user's preference, the Quinn switch may be preferred for those who enjoy a more pronounced and characterful sound during typing.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch doesn't have a defined description, while the Gateron Quinn switch is known for being snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. This indicates that the Quinn switch provides a responsive, smooth, and spring-like typing sensation that is both tactile and comfortable. The various descriptors associated with the Quinn switch suggest a versatile and enjoyable typing experience that may cater to a wide range of preferences in tactile feedback.
Overall, if both switches are compared based on the information provided, the Gateron Quinn switch seems to offer a more unique and defined sound and feel profile compared to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch. However, individual preferences play a significant role in selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, as some users may prefer a quieter, more linear typing experience over a tactile and audibly engaging one. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboards and with various keycap setups will provide the most accurate comparison for a newcomer to find the perfect fit for their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch or the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value a silent typing experience and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a unique tactile feedback with a deep, resonant sound profile and a similar bottom out force, the Gateron Quinn switch could be the better option. Both switches offer their own set of characteristics and qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Quinn switch will depend on what you prioritize in your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
