Outemu Ocean vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch, and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a linear switch, offer users distinct typing experiences. The Ocean switch is known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump with each keypress. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its innovative design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The Ocean switch falls under the category of tactile switches, while the Semi-Silent Linear is categorized as subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. Depending on your preferences, you may lean towards the tactile feedback of the Ocean or the smooth, silent typing experience of the Semi-Silent Linear. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is best for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Ocean and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. The use of polycarbonate in top housings results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material sets the two switches apart. The Outemu Ocean features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear also uses a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile. Therefore, despite their differences in top housing materials, both switches offer a comparable typing experience with their nylon bottom housings creating a unique sound signature.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are divided between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the nylon used in both the Outemu Ocean and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing material, like polycarbonate in both switches, plays a role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of housing materials in a switch contributes to the overall sound profile and typing feel, with both the Outemu Ocean and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offering unique characteristics through their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is 55 grams, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Outemu Ocean has none listed, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Jwick switch the heavier option in terms of bottoming out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Ocean switch due to its lower actuation force, which allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Ocean has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. However, the Semi-Silent Linear's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, with the Ocean providing a slightly deeper feel and the Semi-Silent Linear offering a quicker response. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 is known for its unique and possibly unknown characteristics. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a subdued sound profile, creating a dampened sound when pressed. This makes it a great option for those looking for a more subtle typing experience, especially in quieter environments. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Ocean switch offers a potentially unfamiliar typing experience. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild and buttery feel, offering a gentle yet smooth typing sensation that is approachable to most users. Additionally, it is described as snappy, indicating a super responsive typing experience that feels alive. The switch's polished finish also contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
Taking all of this information into consideration, it's important to note that while the Outemu Ocean and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches each have their own distinct sound and feel profiles, they both offer qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a more unknown sound and feel, the Ocean switch may be the way to go. However, if you're looking for a subdued and buttery typing experience with a snappy response, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, selecting the right switch also depends on personal preferences and the intended use case.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider your priorities. If you prioritize a switch with a unique feel and actuation force, the Ocean may be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience with a medium actuation force, the Semi-Silent Linear switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and what qualities matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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