Outemu Gold vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold and Outemu Ocean are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Gold switch is a clicky switch, providing a satisfying tactile feedback and audible click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean switch is a tactile switch, offering a bump in the keypress without the audible click. For those who enjoy a more audible typing experience, the Gold switch may be the preferred choice, while the Ocean switch appeals to typists who prefer a quieter tactile feedback. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 housing materials of the Outemu Gold and Outemu Ocean switches share many similarities, as both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. Despite these similarities, the Outemu Gold and Outemu Ocean switches differ in their bottom housing material, with the Gold featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Ocean featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing.
The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Gold switch provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize nylon housing. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean switch's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a different typing experience, with a sound profile that is likely sharper and crisper compared to nylon. The choice of bottom housing material can have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of a switch, as the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key.
In summary, while both the Outemu Gold and Outemu Ocean switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinct typing experiences. The Gold switch's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the Ocean switch's polycarbonate bottom housing likely contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the overall sound, feel, and aesthetic qualities of the switch, making it an important consideration for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. The bottom out force for the Gold switch is also lighter at 60 grams, while the Ocean switch's bottom out force is unknown. The Gold switch offers a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions that require quick key presses. On the other hand, the Ocean switch provides a stronger push feel, which some users may find more satisfying for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these two switches offer different typing experiences, with the Gold being lighter and the Ocean potentially being heavier.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Gold clicky switch or the Ocean tactile switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. In comparing the two, neither one is shorter or longer in travel distance as they both offer the same 4 mm distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Gold and Ocean.
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 Gold clicky switch is known for producing a sharp and crisp clicking noise, which is very satisfying for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is quieter and produces a subtle bump sound when activated, providing a more subdued typing experience. However, it is important to remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is known for its light actuation force and smooth keystrokes, making it ideal for fast typists who want a responsive feel. Conversely, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch offers a more pronounced tactile bump when activated, providing a more tactile typing experience that some users prefer for accuracy and precision.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch that provides a loud and clicky typing experience, the Outemu Gold switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter switch with a more tactile feel, the Outemu Ocean switch would be the better choice. Both switches offer high-quality performance and durability, so you can expect a similar level of satisfaction regardless of your choice between the two.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for actuation force, typing experience, and sound profile. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and a satisfying clicky sound, the Outemu Gold switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile bump without a defined bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Ocean switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard.
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