Outemu Ocean vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch, and the KTT Phalaenopsis, which is also a tactile switch. The Ocean is best known for its unique design and is categorized as a high-performance switch. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis stands out with its beautiful translucent appearance and light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue. The 50g tactile force in the Phalaenopsis provides a satisfying bump with each keystroke, ensuring a delightful typing experience. While both switches offer unique features and benefits, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences and typing needs. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Ocean and the KTT Phalaenopsis utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile during typing. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing. This similarity in housing material between the two switches suggests that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics when using either the Ocean or the Phalaenopsis.
In contrast, while the Ocean features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound during typing due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, the Phalaenopsis opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing. This choice likely results in a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to clear and resonant sound. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the typing experience, impacting the sound and feel when keys are pressed down. Therefore, the differences in bottom housing material between the Ocean and Phalaenopsis may lead to distinct tactile feedback for users.
Overall, the utilization of different materials for the top and bottom housings in the Outemu Ocean and KTT Phalaenopsis switches contributes to a unique typing experience for each. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal, the variation in bottom housing materials results in differences in sound and feel when typing. Whether users prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound may influence their choice between the Ocean and the Phalaenopsis switches based on their individual preferences for typing feedback.
Weight
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. The Ocean switch lacks information on bottom out force, while the Phalaenopsis switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Phalaenopsis might be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Ocean switch with its higher actuation force may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a similar amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Due to their equal travel distances, both switches will provide a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. Users can expect a familiar feel when using either switch, as the travel distance is the same for both the Outemu Ocean and the KTT Phalaenopsis.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Outemu Ocean comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, making it difficult to pinpoint its exact sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is known for having a "Bassy" and "Thocky" sound profile. This means that the Phalaenopsis switch offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, characterized by a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones, as well as a satisfying deep and rich sound when pressed, similar to a soft "knock" or deep "thud." Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's case, plate, keycaps, and typing technique.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Ocean switch lacks a specific descriptor for its tactile feel. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a "Stepped" feel. A stepped switch typically offers a tactile experience with two distinct stages, providing a more mild tactile feedback compared to hyper-tactile switches. This means that users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations while typing, adding a unique feel to each keystroke.
Overall, while the Outemu Ocean switch may lack specific descriptions for sound and feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch stands out with its bassy and thocky sound profile and stepped tactile feel. If you are looking for a switch that provides a rich and deep sound experience during key presses and a more nuanced tactile feedback with two distinct stages, the Phalaenopsis switch may be the ideal choice for you. Keep in mind that personal preferences play a significant role in selecting the right switch, so try out different options to find the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Ocean tactile switch or the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and effortless typing experience with minimal finger fatigue, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch with its 50g tactile force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique sound profile and a potentially different typing feel, the Outemu Ocean switch could be a more interesting option. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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