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Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g

An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When navigating the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two compelling options emerge: the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g. The Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a robust design that caters to users seeking durability and performance, while the Silent Sakura - 43g stands out for its exceptionally light bottom-out force of 43g, creating a typing experience reminiscent of gentle raindrops—ideal for those preferring a quieter workspace. Both switches are linear in nature, providing smooth keystrokes without the tactile bump found in other switch types, which can make for an uninterrupted flow during typing or gaming sessions. The choice ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Silent Ocean appealing to users who value reliability and a no-nonsense approach, whereas the Silent Sakura is tailored for light typists who delight in a serene and soft 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

37g

Bottom-out force

65g

Bottom-out force

43g

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

Partial box

Stem material

POM

Stem material

POM

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Polycarbonate

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

22mm extended single-staged spring

Housing materials

The comparison between the housing materials used in the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g reveals distinct characteristics that influence their sound profiles and overall tactile feedback. The Dustproof Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness which enhances clarity and resonance, resulting in a sharper and more defined sound when keys are released. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively, producing a deeper and rounder auditory experience. This variance suggests that while both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience, their sound outputs differ significantly based on the material used for the top housings.

Examining the bottom housings, the Dustproof Silent Ocean opts for nylon, which complements its top housing by providing a fuller and more pronounced bottom-out sound, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, creating a clearer and crisper sound profile upon actuation. This means that the combination of nylon in the Ocean's bottom housing and polycarbonate in the Sakura's bottom housing allows for two distinctly different tactile feelings when the switches are pressed down, where the nylon's softer quality provides a more muted impact, whereas the polycarbonate's rigidity delivers a sharper response. Overall, these differences highlight how the choice of materials affects each switch's auditory characteristics during key presses and releases.

While the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g showcase contrasting materials in their top and bottom housings, they share a common goal of providing satisfying feedback while typing. Users seeking a specific sound profile can expect the differences in materials to result in varied auditory experiences; however, players aiming for a more muted sound may achieve similar results by adjusting their typing technique or using dampeners regardless of the housing materials. Thus, while the construction of each switch informs its unique character, skilled typists may find ways to harness either switch's qualities to meet their personal preferences and typographical styles.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Silent Ocean features a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, compared to the lighter 37 grams of the Silent Sakura. This means that those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions might favor the Silent Sakura, as it requires less effort to actuate a keystroke. In terms of bottom out forces, the Ocean switch also has a higher figure at 65 grams, while the Sakura bottom out at a mere 43 grams. This difference further emphasizes the overall heavier feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, for those seeking lighter switches for comfort during prolonged use, the HMX Silent Sakura would be the better choice, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean is ideal for users who prefer a firmer touch and greater resistance.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Dustproof Silent Ocean boasts a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the HMX Silent Sakura, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While 4.0 mm represents a more traditional travel distance that some users might prefer for a tactile experience, the shorter 3.3 mm distance of the Ocean switch caters to those who seek faster response times, often favored by gamers. Ultimately, if you gravitate toward a more responsive feel, the shorter distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean may suit you better, whereas the Silent Sakura offers a more pronounced travel sensation for those who appreciate a deeper key press.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Sakura - 43g for $2.99.

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 remains an enigma as it lacks a notable auditory characteristic that sets it apart; however, it is generally expected to provide a quieter experience compared to more traditional switches, making it suitable for those who prefer minimal auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is celebrated for its exceptionally muted sound profile, evoking the sound of gentle raindrops against a window. This makes it an excellent option for individuals seeking to create a tranquil typing environment, underscoring its focus on delivering a whisper-quiet experience.

Regarding feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch does not have a documented tactile sensation, leaving some uncertainty about its performance in this area. However, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for an ultra-light touch with a bottom out force of just 43g, which contributes to a remarkably soft and comfortable typing experience, especially favorable for light typists. This light actuation force allows for a smooth linear feel, enhancing the overall typing flow without requiring significant effort.

In summary, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may lack definitive characteristics in both sound and feel, it positions itself as a quieter option within the mechanical switch landscape. The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, on the other hand, stands out with its soft and serene typing experience, paired with a whisper-quiet sound. So, while users may not find as many distinguishing features in the Dustproof Silent Ocean, they can expect a relatively quiet performance similar to that of the Silent Sakura, albeit with less clarity in tactile feedback. Ultimately, the right choice will hinge on an individual's personal typing preferences and the environment in which they typically type.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and desired experience. If you appreciate a more substantial, medium-heavy feel with a bottom out force of 65 grams and require a durable option that prevents dust buildup, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the better choice for you. This switch can provide a satisfying resistance during typing sessions, which might be preferred by individuals who type more forcefully or engage in extensive gaming. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a bottom out force of only 43 grams, the Silent Sakura switches are specifically crafted for those who desire a softer, more delicate keystroke. Designed to minimize noise while typing, these switches excel in creating a tranquil environment, making them ideal for workspaces where quiet operation is paramount. Overall, consider your typing style, how much force you like to exert, and the acoustic environment you wish to cultivate to make the best decision between these two excellent options.

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