Outemu Ocean vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Ocean tactile switch to the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it's clear that each offers its own unique advantages. The Ocean switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch by Durock stands out for its captivating pastel colors and smooth typing experience thanks to its proprietary material blend. While the Ocean switch offers a tactile response, the Sea Glass switch boasts a frictionless and feathery feel that is easy to press. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Ocean and Durock Sea Glass both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The Ocean's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which is described as brighter but not particularly sharp. This contrast in sound profiles is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate creating a clear and resonant sound, while the softer blend of materials in the Sea Glass offers a more pleasant and mellow tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ocean utilizes nylon which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Sea Glass's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE offers a unique sound profile that is described as pleasant and bright. The difference in sound between the two switches can be attributed to the absorption of sound by the softer nylon in the Ocean compared to the impact of the blend in the Sea Glass on the sound and feel of bottoming out.
Despite their differences, both the Outemu Ocean and Durock Sea Glass switches demonstrate how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the sound profile and feel of a keyboard switch. While the Ocean's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and crisp sound, the Sea Glass's blend offers a more pleasant and bright tone. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Ocean provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the unique blend of materials in the Sea Glass. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it is evident that the Ocean has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Sea Glass at 45 grams. This means that the Ocean will require slightly more pressure to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the information for the Ocean is not available, whereas the Sea Glass has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. In terms of weight, the Sea Glass is the lighter option with a lower actuation force, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the unknown bottom out force of the Ocean may suggest a heavier typing experience, providing a more substantial feel for those who prefer it. Overall, if the bottom out force of the Ocean is similar to the Sea Glass, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of force requirements. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Outemu Ocean has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Durock Sea Glass. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ocean being closer to the standard 4 mm and the Sea Glass being slightly shorter at 3.8 mm. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sea Glass for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Ocean with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 is known for a particular characteristic that is not specified in the provided information. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offers a uniquely hollow sound signature that adds a distinct auditory element to the typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch lacks a specific descriptor in the given information. Conversely, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch is described as frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press. These qualities combine to offer a typing experience that is smooth, gentle, light, and effortless, making it comfortable for long typing sessions and appealing to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and Durock Sea Glass linear switch differ in terms of sound and feel, both switches excel in providing a unique and satisfying typing experience. The Outemu Ocean remains a mystery in terms of sound and feel, but for those seeking a switch with a distinct dryness and weightlessness, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch stands out with its captivating pastel colors and smooth, frictionless nature. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is looking for.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force and typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a unique dry, wispy, and airy feel, along with a weightless typing experience despite a 62g bottom-out force, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a different typing experience or bottom-out force, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch might be more suitable. Additionally, consider factors such as sound and feel when making your decision, as these can greatly impact your overall typing satisfaction. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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