Outemu Ocean vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Ocean and the Outemu Silent Grey are two popular options to consider. The Ocean switch is best known for its distinctive feel, while the Silent Grey switch is renowned for offering a quiet and highly tactile typing experience. The Ocean switch is categorized as a tactile switch, whereas the Silent Grey switch falls under the silent tactile category. The Ocean switch may appeal to those looking for a unique tactile feel, while the Silent Grey switch is perfect for individuals who desire a satisfying typing experience without the noise. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Ocean and the Outemu Silent Grey both feature polycarbonate top housings, which produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual effects. However, despite having the same top housing material, the two switches differ in their bottom housing material. The Ocean utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound, while the Silent Grey also features a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience.
The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings in the Outemu Ocean and the Outemu Silent Grey results in a split of the qualities each housing material brings to the switch. When typing on these switches, the bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing in both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing the tactile feedback when pressing down on the keys. In contrast, the qualities of the top housing material will be more pronounced when releasing a key, influencing the sound produced when letting go of a key.
Overall, the Outemu Ocean and the Outemu Silent Grey offer similar sound profiles and tactile feedback, thanks to their use of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings. While the top housing affects the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience by absorbing sound and creating a deeper sound profile. Both switches provide a combination of sharp, high-pitched sound with a fuller, rounder sound, appealing to users who appreciate a variety of tactile feedback in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Ocean has an actuation force of 55 grams, slightly heavier than the Silent Grey's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Grey is 65 grams, indicating a heavier feel compared to the Ocean, which does not provide information on bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Ocean, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Silent Grey. Both switches offer tactile feedback, but the Silent Grey provides a slightly heavier typing experience overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance represents the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance felt when pressing down on a key. Due to their equal travel distances, users can expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience when using either of these switches. This means that whether you choose the Outemu Ocean or the Outemu Silent Grey switch, you can enjoy a consistent typing experience with the same travel 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 Ocean and Silent Grey.
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 Ocean tactile switch is known for being relatively quiet, while the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch lives up to its name by offering a silent typing experience. The Ocean switch may produce a subtle noise, depending on the keyboard and keycaps being used, whereas the Silent Grey switch is designed for a quiet environment without sacrificing the tactile feedback.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch provides a tactile bump during actuation, offering a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch also delivers a tactile bump, but with a smoother keystroke that reduces the overall noise produced during typing. Both switches are designed to provide a tactile sensation, with the Silent Grey switch focusing on quieter operation.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Outemu Ocean and Outemu Silent Grey tactile switches cater to different preferences. The Ocean switch appeals to those who enjoy a tactile bump without being overly loud, while the Silent Grey switch is suitable for users seeking a silent typing experience with tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump, the Outemu Silent Grey switch would be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and are looking for a different typing experience, the Outemu Ocean switch might be the better choice. Both switches have their own unique features and benefits, so make sure to consider your typing style and preferences before making a decision.
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