Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can greatly influence your typing experience, with the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and Gazzew U4Tx RGB offering unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Dustproof Silent Ocean, a linear switch, is designed for a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, making it a great choice for those who prioritize speed and silent operation during intense gaming sessions or quiet office environments. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB boasts a tactile feedback that combines a satisfying "thock" sound when bottoming out with a quieter topping out, providing a luxurious typing feel without the distraction of noise. This makes the U4Tx particularly appealing for those who enjoy a tactile response when typing but prefer a reduced auditory footprint. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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 Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches present a fascinating contrast in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Dustproof Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound signature that resonates well, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," which exhibits a softer composition. This difference results in a sound profile that is richer and deeper, showcasing the nature of the materials. For users aiming for a high-quality RGB experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean would likely produce more pronounced lighting effects due to its clear polycarbonate top, while the U4Tx RGB's aesthetics may differ due to the opacity of its blend.
Moving to the bottom housing, both switches employ materials that share a common trait of softness, though they label their compositions differently. The Dustproof Silent Ocean opts for a nylon bottom housing, classic and proven, which absorbs sound well to produce a duller, rounder auditory experience. This provides a full-bodied feel when typing, emphasizing the lower frequencies of sound. Similarly, the U4Tx RGB employs the proprietary Gazzew blend for its bottom housing, which also prides itself on its softness and ability to create a deep sound profile. This choice further enhances the overall sound experience, ensuring that both switches, in their own unique ways, create a similar lush auditory ambiance when typing.
When considering the overall dynamics created by the varying materials in the two switches, it is evident that the sound and feel during use will be shaped by the combination of the materials used in both the top and bottom housings. With the Dustproof Silent Ocean, the lightweight yet resonant polycarbonate top will drive the higher frequencies, while the nylon bottom will produce a more muted and rounded sound, showing how the two materials interact. In the case of the U4Tx RGB, the blending of the proprietary top and bottom housing materials yields a pleasantly deep sound, making it feel cohesive in nature. Ultimately, while the two switches use different strategies in their materials, they each aim to provide users with a satisfying sound experience, showcasing how diverse materials can still yield similar outcomes in performance.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams to the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, which has an unspecified actuation force but also a bottom out force of 65 grams, we can draw some conclusions regarding their typing experiences. The Dustproof Silent Ocean is characterized by a lighter actuation force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions, especially in work or gaming environments. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB lacks an stated actuation force, but shares the same bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a consistent feeling when the key is fully depressed. Both switches exhibit a medium-heavy bottom out force, appealing to users who enjoy a substantial feedback during typing. If the actuation forces were to be equal, one could expect similar results in terms of keystroke activation; however, the unknown actuation force of the U4Tx RGB leaves some ambiguity regarding its lightness or heaviness compared to the Outemu switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we see a clear distinction. The Dustproof Silent Ocean has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the U4Tx RGB has a slightly deeper travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Outemu switch offers a shorter travel distance, which can yield faster response times — a feature often favored by gamers for its efficiency. In contrast, the U4Tx's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel that some users appreciate for a more deliberate keystroke. If you're looking for a responsive typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean would be the preferable choice, while those who enjoy a deeper keystroke might lean towards the Gazzew U4Tx RGB. Overall, each switch offers distinct advantages depending on personal preferences for travel distance.
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 Gazzew U4Tx RGB comes in at $6.50.
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 Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is designed for a quieter experience but lacks a detailed sound profile description, so its sound characteristics remain somewhat ambiguous. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch, on the other hand, is noted for its deep "thock" sound when bottoming out and a quieter, stealthy sound when topping out, creating a refined acoustic experience that blends tactile feedback with a more pleasant auditory profile. While the sound experience may vary based on factors like the keyboard construction and keycap material, the U4Tx RGB offers a distinct auditory pleasure, making it preferable for users who value both sound quality and a quieter operation.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean lacks specific descriptions, leaving its tactile sensation and engagement a matter of speculation. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch is acclaimed for its sharp tactile bump, which enhances the typing experience by providing clear feedback with each keypress. This tactile response can add a layer of satisfaction for typists who appreciate pronounced engagement. Without clear information on the feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean, it is difficult to contrast it directly; however, the U4Tx RGB certainly caters to those who favor a luxurious and tactile touch.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch offers a promise of a quieter experience—details regarding its sound and feel remain unclear, preventing a thorough comparison. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB, with its rich, deep sound and sharp tactile feedback, provides a more defined sensory experience for users. For those prioritizing sound and feel, the U4Tx RGB stands out as a desirable option, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean remains an enigma in terms of subjective attributes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a smooth linear feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean is the way to go. Its medium-heavy weight of 65 grams is suitable for those who appreciate a certain level of resistance while typing, making it a solid option for individuals who want a more subdued and minimalist feel, especially in shared or quiet spaces. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more tactile experience with a satisfying sound profile, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB would be a better fit for you. Its distinctive "thock" sound upon bottoming out, combined with a tactile bump, provides a luxurious typing experience that many enthusiasts enjoy. Additionally, the U4Tx RGB is designed for those who appreciate both aesthetics and performance, with lively RGB lighting to enhance your setup. Ultimately, choose the Dustproof Silent Ocean for a smooth and stealthy experience, or opt for the U4Tx RGB for a tactile thrill with visual flair.
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