Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts are always on the lookout for the perfect combination of smoothness, sound, and feel. Two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Dareu Snow, both linear switches. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is best known for its dustproof design, ensuring longevity and reliability. On the other hand, the Snow switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing and stem, resulting in a unique thocky sound signature. The Dustproof Silent Ocean falls into the category of silent switches, while the Snow is categorized as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences, making them both appealing options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's delve 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and Dareu Snow both feature similar nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deep and full sound profile when typing. This softer plastic material absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Dustproof Silent Ocean utilizes polycarbonate, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the Snow's POK top housing is designed for smooth and clacky switches, offering exceptional durability and wear resistance compared to other materials like POM.
While both switches feature nylon bottom housings, providing a deep sound profile, the use of different top housing materials sets the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and Dareu Snow apart. The Dustproof Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and crisp sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clearer typing experience. In comparison, the Snow's POK top housing focuses on smoothness, durability, and a clacky sound, making it a top choice for users prioritizing these qualities in their switches. This difference in top housing materials highlights how subtle changes in housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and Dareu Snow comes down to personal preference for sound and feel. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings for a deep sound profile, the Dustproof Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and clearer sound, perfect for those seeking a more precise typing experience. On the other hand, the Snow's POK top housing prioritizes smoothness, durability, and a clacky sound, appealing to users looking for a different typing feel. Whether you prefer the sharpness of polycarbonate or the smoothness of POK, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch differ slightly, with the Dustproof Silent Ocean being slightly lighter in both aspects. The Dustproof Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In comparison, the Dareu Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium switch. Both switches offer a decent balance between actuation and bottom out force, providing a comfortable typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Dustproof Silent Ocean, while those looking for a slightly more substantial typing experience may opt for the Dareu Snow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.3mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of key travel with both switches. While one may assume that the Dustproof Silent Ocean or the Snow might have a shorter or longer travel distance compared to the other based on their names, they actually offer the same typing feel in this aspect.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 Dareu Snow linear switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, thanks to the innovative use of POK material in the top housing and stem. This leads to a satisfying and rich sound when typing, with a low-pitched tone that is sure to enhance the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch's sound qualities are not specifically outlined, so it may not provide the same deep and thocky sound that the Snow switch offers. However, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Snow linear switch is known for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like sensation when typing. This bouncy feel gives the keys a lively response, adding to the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is not described, so it is unknown how it compares in terms of feedback and typing experience to the Snow switch.
In conclusion, the Dareu Snow linear switch stands out for its deep, thocky sound and bouncy feel, making it a unique and innovative option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may offer a different typing experience due to the lack of specified sound and feel qualities, it is important to consider personal preferences and other factors when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches can provide a high-quality typing experience, but if you are looking for a specific sound profile or feedback sensation, the Dareu Snow switch may be the better choice based on the available information.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a quieter typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate innovative materials like POK for a deeper sound signature and enjoy a smoother linear switch with a bottom out force of 60 grams, the Dareu Snow could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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