Outemu Ocean vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch. The Outemu Ocean switch is known for its smooth tactile feedback, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is beloved for its high-pitched, satisfying click sound that adds an extra layer of enjoyment to typing. The Purple Click switch is also categorized as crunchy, invigorating, resonant, and stepped, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response. 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
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Ocean and the KTT Purple Click switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of both switches.
However, the key point of differentiation between the Ocean and Purple Click switches lies in their nylon bottom housing. While the Ocean switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Purple Click switch also features a nylon bottom housing with similar sound-enhancing qualities. Nylon, being a softer plastic material, is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with this material. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience and sound produced by the switches.
It is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are split between the Outemu Ocean and the KTT Purple Click switches. The impact of the bottom housing material is more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences that cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch have differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ocean boasts a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the lighter 40 grams of the Purple Click. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Purple Click requires 55 grams, which is medium-light, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Purple Click may be the better option, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Ocean provides a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding the desired typing experience and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that you will get similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a standard travel distance for a comfortable typing experience, making them suitable choices for users who prefer a consistent feel while typing. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, providing a consistent user experience regardless of which switch is chosen.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, making it difficult to make a direct comparison with the KTT Purple Click clicky switch. However, considering the lack of specific sound characteristics mentioned for the Ocean, it can be assumed that its sound may be more subtle or less distinctive compared to the high-pitched and satisfying click of the Purple Click switch. The Purple Click switch is known for producing a crunchy and resonant sound profile, delivering an immersive auditory experience that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Ocean switch does not have a provided descriptor, making it challenging to directly compare it with the attributes of the Purple Click switch. The Purple Click switch is described as invigorating and stepped, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy typing feel that creates an immersive sensation. The stepped feel of the Purple Click switch provides a more nuanced tactile experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages, offering a different typing sensation compared to other switches.
In conclusion, while the specific characteristics of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch in terms of sound and feel are not provided, the information available indicates that it may offer a more subtle or understated typing experience compared to the distinctive clicky sound and invigorating feel of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch. Both switches may deliver satisfying tactile feedback, but the Purple Click switch stands out for its high-pitched click and stepped feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Outemu Ocean if you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of none and are looking for a switch that is best known for its characteristics. On the other hand, opt for the KTT Purple Click if you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams and are seeking a switch that is best known for its high-pitched, satisfying click. Additionally, if you enjoy a crunchy and resonant sound profile with an invigorating and stepped feel, the KTT Purple Click may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel.
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