Outemu Milk Blue vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Milk Blue, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Silent Ocean, a linear switch. The Milk Blue switch is well-known for its satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among typists and gamers who enjoy the audible confirmation of key presses. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switch provides a smooth and quiet typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more subtle and noise-free keyboard. Each switch offers unique benefits depending on individual preferences and needs. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The Outemu Milk Blue and Outemu Silent Ocean switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which lends a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile to the switches. The use of polycarbonate in the housings creates a clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same top housing material, they differ in the material used for the bottom housing.
The Milk Blue switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, highlighting the importance of the material used in this part of the switch for overall sound quality and typing experience.
Overall, while the top housing of the Outemu Milk Blue and Outemu Silent Ocean switches contribute to their similar sharp and clear sound profiles due to their polycarbonate construction, the difference in bottom housing material results in distinct sound characteristics. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Milk Blue produces a deeper sound profile compared to the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing. Understanding how each housing material affects the sound and feel of a switch is crucial for enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Blue requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Ocean's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Milk Blue is unknown, while the Silent Ocean has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Silent Ocean more appealing due to its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Milk Blue despite its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results to the user. This makes them equal in this aspect, offering consistency in keypress experience.
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 Milk Blue 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 Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its satisfying clicky sound, which is often likened to a typewriter. This sound is more pronounced compared to other clicky switches, 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, with minimal sound when pressed. This switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without the audible feedback typically associated with clicky switches.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Milk Blue switch is known for its tactile bump and clicky feedback, providing a tactile experience with each key press. This tactile response can help typists with their typing accuracy and speed. In contrast, the Silent Ocean switch offers a linear keystroke without any tactile bump, providing a smooth and consistent feel when typing. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without the distraction of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch offer contrasting experiences when it comes to sound and feel. The Milk Blue switch provides a loud and tactile typing experience with a pronounced click, while the Silent Ocean switch offers a quiet and smooth keystroke without tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Milk Blue switch would be the way to go, while the Silent Ocean switch would be better suited for those looking for a quiet and linear typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are a newcomer looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may want to consider the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch if you enjoy a more tactile and clicky typing experience with a lighter touch. The Milk Blue switch would be a good choice for those who prefer a loud and satisfying typing sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch may be the better option for you. The Silent Ocean switch would be ideal for those who want a more discreet typing sound while still enjoying a responsive keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
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