Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Kailh Sage offer contrasting typing experiences. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is a linear switch, known for its silent operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch, offering a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier weight and sharp, crunchy feedback. While the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be preferred for its quiet operation, the Sage switch is chosen for its invigorating and tactile typing experience. 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
70g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The key difference between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Kailh Sage lies in their housing materials. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the Dustproof Silent Ocean stands out with its use of nylon for the bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sage. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making them ideal for users who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Kailh Sage offer a clear housing due to their polycarbonate top housings. This allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. However, the choice between the Dustproof Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing and the Sage's nylon bottom housing can impact the sound experience, with the former providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the latter. This highlights the importance of considering the entire housing structure when selecting a switch for your keyboard.
Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Kailh Sage may come down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches offer the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing for a clearer and resonant sound, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in the Dustproof Silent Ocean sets it apart with a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a rounder one, both switches can deliver quality performance for your typing needs.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh Sage clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Dustproof Silent Ocean requiring 65 grams and the Sage needing 70 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Dustproof Silent Ocean more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Sage. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Sage has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize quicker response times, such as gamers. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly deeper press, the Sage may be the better option, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a slightly shorter travel distance for those who prefer a more immediate response. Ultimately, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of travel distance within the realm of shorter switches.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25.
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
The Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is known for its silence, while the Sage switch stands out for its distinct clicky typing experience. In terms of sound, the Sage switch offers a crunchy and satisfying clicky sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. The Dustproof Silent Ocean switch's sound profile is unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors including the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch details are not provided, but the Sage switch is described as invigorating and sharp. An invigorating switch like the Sage offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, providing an immersive typing sensation. The sharp tactile bump of the Sage switch contributes to its high feedback intensity, creating a distinct tactile experience with each keypress.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch focuses on silence, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch emphasizes a crunchy and satisfying clicky typing experience. While the specific sound and feel characteristics of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch are unknown, based on the available information, users can expect a quiet and smooth typing experience with this switch. On the other hand, the Sage switch's distinctive clicky sound and invigorating tactile feedback make it a popular choice for those seeking a tactile and audible typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier bottom out force and a sharp clickiness, the Kailh Sage switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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