Outemu Ocean vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Silver, a linear switch. The Ocean switch is best known for its tactile bump feedback, providing a satisfying click with each key press. On the other hand, the Silver switch is known for its smooth and consistent linear feel, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers. While the Ocean switch may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile typing experience, the Silver switch is favored by users who prioritize speed and accuracy. However, let's delve deeper into the nuances of each switch to help you make an informed decision on which one best suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
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
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 Outemu Silver both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that produces clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting thanks to its translucency. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the difference lies in their bottom housings. The Ocean utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the Outemu Ocean and Outemu Silver offer a similar typing experience with their combination of polycarbonate top housing. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, creating a sharp and crisp sound profile unique to polycarbonate. As a result, users can expect consistent performance and sound quality from both switches, with subtle variations in sound profile depending on the specific housing material used.
Overall, the Outemu Ocean and Outemu Silver showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile and typing experience of mechanical switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, their nylon bottom housing provides distinct characteristics – the Ocean offering a deeper and fuller sound, and the Silver delivering a similar typing experience. Whether choosing the Ocean for a sharper sound or the Silver for a rounder sound, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch, enhanced by the thoughtful selection of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Outemu Ocean has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Silver's 45 grams, making the Ocean switch slightly heavier to activate. However, the bottom out force for the Outemu Silver is 65 grams, indicating a heavier feel when fully pressed than the Ocean switch, for which the bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Outemu Silver switch would be considered the heavier option due to its higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Outemu Silver switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Outemu Ocean switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users will experience a similar amount of key travel when typing on either switch. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect consistent feedback and performance regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, the travel distance of 4 mm on both the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch provides a comfortable typing experience for users.
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 Silver.
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 Ocean tactile switch is known for its unique sound profile, which is more pronounced and tactile compared to the smooth and relatively silent Outemu Silver linear switch. The Ocean switch tends to have a satisfying click or bump when actuated, providing a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Silver switch offers a smooth keystroke with no tactile feedback, resulting in a quieter typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Ocean switch is praised for its tactile feedback, allowing users to feel each keystroke, while the Silver switch provides a linear and consistent feel throughout presses. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a tactile typing experience with audible feedback, the Ocean switch would be the way to go. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Silver switch may suit your needs better. Either way, both switches offer reliable performance and durability, so you can expect similar quality results regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prioritize a lighter typing experience with a lower bottom out force, the Ocean switch would be a good fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Silver switch would be the better choice. Additionally, consider the sound and feel of each switch to determine which aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Ocean tactile switch and the Silver linear switch will come down to your personal typing style and comfort preferences.
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