Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience, especially for enthusiasts who value both performance and feel. On one side, we have the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, which is hailed for its smooth linear actuation, designed to deliver a quiet and unobtrusive typing experience, making it an excellent choice for office environments or late-night gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch offers a more robust tactile feedback, characterized by its unique PA12 top housing that enhances acoustic profile, and a POM stem, which lends a distinctively crisp sound. This switch thrives on users who appreciate a bit more resistance and a higher-pitched resonance during their typing or gaming endeavors. While the Dustproof Silent Ocean excels in providing a serene setup, perfect for avoiding disruptions, the Xinhai (Heavy) combines sophistication with a precise performance that appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced feel. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and HMX Xinhai (Heavy), a clear distinction arises in their top housing compositions. The Dustproof Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is noted for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This clarity and resonance are particularly beneficial for RGB lighting effects, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances aesthetic illumination. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, a classic material known for its ability to absorb sound and generate a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer texture results in a duller tone, affecting the overall auditory experience when typing. The variance in materials in the top housing particularly influences the release sound of each switch, making this component significant for users seeking specific sound qualities.
On the bottom housing front, both the Dustproof Silent Ocean and Xinhai (Heavy) employ nylon. This shared nylon composition in the bottom housing means that both switches lend themselves to a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and rounder sound. Nylon serves to absorb more sound, effectively dampening clattering noises that may occur when a key bottoms out. Regardless of the differing materials in the top housings, users of either switch can expect a comparable bottom-out feel and sound profile since both utilize the same material in this crucial component. The consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that the fundamental characteristics of both switches are rooted in the same design philosophy.
In summary, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) showcase significant differences in their top housing materials—polycarbonate versus nylon—their bottom housings are identical in composition, both utilizing nylon. This creates a unique dichotomy where the Dustproof Silent Ocean’s sharper and crisper sound contrasts with the Xinhai (Heavy)’s deeper and rounder qualities, illustrating how the differing top materials affect the auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound profiles remain intertwined through the shared nylon in the bottom housing, ensuring users still achieve a similar acoustic satisfaction, especially during the bottom-out experience of each switch. This differentiation and harmony in materials underline the complexities of switch design and user experience in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their force specifications. The Dustproof Silent Ocean requires an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) has a firmer actuation force of 55 grams, making the Ocean switch lighter and more suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience during extended use. In terms of bottom out force, the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a bottom out force of 65 grams, slightly heavier than the Xinhai's 62.5 grams. This means that while the Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a softer touch when initiating a keystroke, it ultimately feels heavier when the key is fully pressed down compared to the Xinhai switch. Thus, for users looking for a lighter typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean would be preferable, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may gravitate towards the Xinhai (Heavy).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it's evident that they cater to slightly different preferences in tactile feedback. The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, positioning it as the longer switch. This subtle difference of just 0.1 mm means that users of the Ocean switch may experience a more responsive feel, which is often preferred by gamers seeking quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes may find the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on individual preferences for switch travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) 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 features a design that aims for a quieter operation, making it ideal for environments where noise control is essential. Although specific sound characteristics are not mentioned, one can infer that the focus on silence should produce a muted keystroke compared to more traditional switches. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance, attributed to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. This elevated sound profile allows for a more pronounced typing experience, ideal for users who enjoy auditory feedback with each keystroke. Overall, while both switches cater to different sound preferences, the Dustproof Silent Ocean opts for discretion, while the Xinhai (Heavy) emphasizes clarity and brightness.
When analyzing the feel of these two switches, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean is not explicitly described, leaving its tactile feedback and actuation characteristics open to interpretation. However, one may anticipate a smoother linear experience, as is standard among linear switches, with an emphasis on a quiet keystroke. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy) is tailored for those who prefer a more substantial and refined tactile experience due to its heavier design, which invigorates the typing experience without being overly taxing. The combination of materials used in the Xinhai allows it to present a more refined touch, making it appealing to those who seek a heavier and slightly more textured feel as they type.
In summary, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean focuses on a quieter operation, making it suitable for noise-sensitive settings, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) presents a higher-pitched and crisper sound, along with a heavier tactile experience. Although the specific characteristics of the Dustproof Silent Ocean's feel are unknown, it likely emphasizes a smooth linear action. Each switch caters to different preferences, allowing users to select based on their individual priorities, whether that be sound or tactile feedback. Thus, you'll appreciate similar results by choosing a switch that aligns with your desired auditory and tactile experience, whether you lean towards quietness or pronounced acoustics.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you favor a slightly heavier key feel and prioritize noise reduction during your typing sessions, the Dustproof Silent Ocean would be your go-to option, especially if you're concerned about dust ingress and want a switch that handles prolonged use quietly. This switch's medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams provides a satisfying tactile feedback without being overly strenuous. On the other hand, if you are looking for a slightly lighter press, enjoy a distinctively crisp acoustics profile, and appreciate a switch that offers subtle sophistication combined with precise performance, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is likely to meet your needs. Its medium bottom-out force of 62.5 grams allows for a seamless typing experience while still delivering a refined sound and feel thanks to its unique materials. Ultimately, your decision should center around whether you prioritize sound dampening and sturdiness with the Dustproof Silent Ocean or the refined auditory experience and lighter feel offered by the HMX Xinhai (Heavy).
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