Outemu Gold vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold and Outemu Silent Ocean offer distinct experiences for users. The Gold switch is a clicky switch, providing satisfying tactile feedback and audible clicks with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switch is a linear switch, offering a smoother typing experience without the audible feedback. Both switches have their own unique advantages - the Gold switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience, while the Silent Ocean switch is perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Gold and Outemu Silent Ocean switches, it is evident that both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Therefore, whether using the Gold or Silent Ocean, the top housing material will offer similar sound characteristics and aesthetic appeal.
On the other hand, both the Outemu Gold and Outemu Silent Ocean switches feature a nylon bottom housing material. Nylon is favored for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics. Its softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, regardless of whether you choose the Gold or Silent Ocean, the nylon bottom housing will contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches, creating a distinct typing experience for the user.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play specific roles in the overall sound and feel of a switch. The qualities brought by each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material will primarily impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This division ensures a balanced typing experience, with each housing material contributing to the overall performance of the switch.
Weight
The actuation force for both the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is 45 grams, making them the same in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold requires 60 grams, while the Silent Ocean needs 65 grams, making the Silent Ocean slightly heavier. In terms of weight, the Gold switch would be considered lighter compared to the Silent Ocean. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the Gold switch might be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may find the Silent Ocean switch more suitable due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The Outemu Gold clicky switch offers a tactile and audible clicky feedback, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch provides a smooth and silent typing experience. Despite their different typing experiences, both switches offer the same travel distance, ensuring consistent keypress feedback regardless of the switch type chosen.
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 Silent 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 providing a loud and satisfying click with each key press, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is designed to be quiet and stealthy, making it ideal for situations where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold clicky switch offers a tactile bump and audible click when activated, providing a responsive and tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes without any tactile feedback, offering a more linear and quiet typing experience. Both switches have their own unique feel and appeal, catering to different preferences when it comes to typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on whether you prefer a loud and tactile typing experience with the Gold switch or a silent and linear typing experience with the Silent Ocean switch. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect reliable performance and durability from the Outemu brand.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you should consider your preference in sound and feel. The Gold switch offers a clicky typing experience with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Silent Ocean switch provides a quieter, linear experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. If you enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a traditional mechanical keyboard, the Outemu Gold switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more quiet typing experience without the tactile feedback, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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