Outemu Lotus vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lotus and the Outemu Silent Ocean are two popular options to consider. The Lotus is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean is also a linear switch that stands out for its quiet performance and tactile feedback. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, but cater to different preferences. While the Lotus is ideal for gamers and typists who prefer a consistent feel with each keypress, the Silent Ocean is perfect for those who prioritize a quieter typing experience without compromising on 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
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Lotus and the Outemu Silent Ocean, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The Lotus features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While nylon provides a duller and rounder sound, polycarbonate offers a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for aesthetic purposes.
On the other hand, both the Outemu Lotus and the Outemu Silent Ocean have nylon bottom housings. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel due to the shared nylon bottom housing. Despite differences in the top housing material, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch, impacting the bottom-out sound when a key is pressed down.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Lotus and the Outemu Silent Ocean will ultimately come down to personal preference for the type of sound profile desired. The Lotus with its nylon housing will provide a mellower and gentler typing experience, while the Silent Ocean with its polycarbonate housing will offer a crisper and sharper sound. Whether prioritizing sound quality or aesthetics with RGB lighting, each switch's housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the user's typing performance and satisfaction, with the housing materials contributing distinct characteristics to their sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Silent Ocean. The Lotus requires 35 grams of actuation force and 50 grams of bottom out force, making it ideal for those looking for a light typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a heavier 65 grams bottom out force, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. The difference in weight between the two switches allows users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience. Both switches offer different levels of force, catering to users who prefer either lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch. The Lotus switch provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switch offers a deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference in terms of travel distance and key press feel.
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 Lotus 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
The Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch both offer a unique typing experience. In terms of sound, the Lotus switch is known for a quieter operation compared to traditional mechanical switches, making it a good choice for those looking for a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switch is also designed to reduce noise, providing a silent typing experience that is ideal for shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions. Both switches offer a quieter alternative to standard mechanical switches, but the Silent Ocean switch may have a slight edge in terms of noise reduction.
When it comes to feel, the Lotus switch is known for a smooth and consistent linear feel, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a straight downward motion when pressing keys. The Silent Ocean switch also offers a linear feel, but with additional tactile feedback to ensure keypresses are registered without the need for bottoming out. This can result in a more comfortable typing experience for some users who may prefer a softer touch when typing for extended periods.
Overall, both the Outemu Lotus and Outemu Silent Ocean linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a quieter typing experience, either one of these switches would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a more tactile feel during typing, the Silent Ocean switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and prioritize a smoother typing experience, the Lotus switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and value a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ocean switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound level, and bottom out force. Consider these factors carefully to ensure that you select the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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