Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Duck offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is a linear switch with a reputation for None, while the Duck is a tactile switch that provides a subtle and satisfying typing experience. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is categorized as [], whereas the Duck falls into the categories of ['Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', 'Polished']. If you prefer a smooth and silent typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a gentle tactility and crisp sound profile while typing, the Duck switches would be the ideal choice for you. 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
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Duck both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. While both switches share this feature in their top housing, the Dustproof Silent Ocean sets itself apart with a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing.
Furthermore, the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom housings of these switches plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of typing. The qualities of the bottom housing material are felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the key. In the case of the Dustproof Silent Ocean, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material, such as polycarbonate, impacts the sound when a key is released. This split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a varied typing experience with each switch.
In summary, while both switches feature polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean stands out with its nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The SP-Star Duck, on the other hand, maintains consistency with a polycarbonate bottom housing for a clear and resonant sound. The combination of different housing materials in these switches contributes to a unique typing experience, with the qualities of each material impacting keypresses in distinct ways.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch vary in weight, with the Dustproof Silent Ocean requiring a heavier touch. The Dustproof Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it a medium-weight option. The difference in weight between the two switches can affect typing comfort and typing speed. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Duck for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier actuation force of the Dustproof Silent Ocean for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is 3.3mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. The Duck switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch. The Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may be preferred by those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Duck switch may appeal to those who prefer a deeper keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 or defining characteristic. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. However, it is important to remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch also does not have a specific reputation or defining characteristic. Conversely, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is known for its mild, buttery, and polished feel. The mild characteristics offer a gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users. The buttery smooth keystroke experience provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, contributing to a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer different sound and feel characteristics, they both aim to provide a pleasant typing experience. The Duck switch may be more suited for those looking for a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch offers a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing requirements of the user.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your typing preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a linear switch without a specific standout feature, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force switch with a subtle tactile experience, clean sound profile, and smooth key travel, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
