Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, a linear switch, to the Gateron Silent Ink Black, another linear switch, there are key distinctions to consider. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is known for its dustproof design, while the Silent Ink Black is praised for its whisper-quiet typing experience. The Dustproof Silent Ocean falls under the category of dustproof switches, while the Silent Ink Black is categorized as smooth, muted, and polished switches. If you are looking for a switch that provides a clean and muted typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a dustproof design, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean might be the better choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, we see that they both offer distinct characteristics. The Dustproof Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. Both materials contribute to a clear and resonant sound quality, with the polycarbonate being stiffer and the INK blend offering a satisfyingly clacky sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Dustproof Silent Ocean uses nylon, known for creating a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Silent Ink Black incorporates Gateron's INK blend for the bottom housing, resulting in a similarly high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Despite using different materials, both switches provide a unique typing experience with their bottom housings creating a duller and rounder sound quality compared to the top.
Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and Gateron Silent Ink Black utilize different housing materials for their switches, they both offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate and nylon used in the Dustproof Silent Ocean contribute to a sharp and clear sound on the top and a deep and full sound on the bottom. Meanwhile, Gateron's INK blend in the Silent Ink Black delivers a pointed and satisfyingly clacky sound throughout. In either case, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in the overall feel and sound of the switches, offering users a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is clear that the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is heavier in both aspects. The Dustproof Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Outemu switch more suitable, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Gateron switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron switch. The shorter travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Silent Ink Black switch may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 switch does not have a specific reputation, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is known for its muted characteristics. The Silent Ink Black switch offers a quieter typing experience compared to regular switches, making it ideal for quieter environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch does not have a specific feel reputation, whereas the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience. A silky switch provides exceptional smoothness during typing, reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, a polished switch signifies a refined finish that enhances the overall typing feel by reducing friction and offering smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches may differ in their sound and feel characteristics, they both offer a quieter typing experience overall. If you are looking for a switch that provides a cushion-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback, the Silent Ink Black switch may be the better choice. However, if you prioritize a switch with dustproof features and are less concerned with sound and feel specifics, the Dustproof Silent Ocean could still provide a satisfactory typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force, best-known features, sound, and feel of each switch. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Dustproof Silent Ocean at 65 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ink Black at 70 grams offers a cushioned, pillow-like feel with minimal audio feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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