Outemu Ocean vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Ocean and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Outemu Ocean stands out for its notable tactile response, making it an appealing choice for users who prioritize feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is designed for those who seek a more pronounced tactile sensation, characterized by a medium-high level of tactility and the captivating deep thocks produced with each keystroke. While the Ocean offers a solid tactile experience that can enhance general typing tasks, the Shadow switch excels in providing an engaging auditory feedback and a bouncy feel, appealing to gamers and typists who enjoy a lively 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Ocean and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches both feature polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in identical sound profiles that are sharp, high-pitched, and crisp. Polycarbonate's stiffer properties contribute to a clearer resonance, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate enhanced auditory feedback during typing. Both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, ideally suited for RGB lighting setups, allowing vibrant light to shine through and elevate the aesthetic appeal of any mechanical keyboard. Since the top housing is the same in both switches, users can expect similar auditory experiences when they press the keys, with the high-pitched sounds satisfying those who prefer a more definitive auditory cue.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly, with the Outemu Ocean utilizing nylon while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs polycarbonate. Nylon is known for its softer characteristics, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a duller, rounder sound experience that contrasts with the crisper high-pitched sounds produced by polycarbonate. Consequently, while the top housing of both switches will yield similar auditory feedback, the bottom housing will significantly influence the overall sound feel and bottom-out experience, providing a richer, more muted feedback in the Ocean versus the sharper response found in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
The blend of different materials in the bottom housing of each switch creates a unique typing experience, resulting in varying sound profiles. For users prioritizing auditory feedback from both the top and bottom of the switch, the Ocean's nylon bottom will offer a softer and more cushioned feel during bottom-out, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring’s polycarbonate bottom will produce a distinctly sharper and more resonant sound. This combination demonstrates how the properties of each housing material can interact to affect the overall feel and sound of a switch when pressed. Depending on personal preference for sound quality and typing experience, users may gravitate towards one switch over the other, appreciating how the distinct characteristics of the materials unite to create a complete and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. Both the Outemu Ocean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring have the same actuation force of 55 grams, which means they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces contrast significantly, as the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the bottom out force for the Outemu Ocean is currently unknown. This difference indicates that while both switches have the same actuation, the Shadow (Ink) requires more force to fully press down, giving it a heavier feel overall. For users who prioritize lighter switches for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Outemu Ocean might be more appealing, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Aflion Shadow (Ink) due to its higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch both feature the same travel distance of 4 mm, making them equivalent in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable tactile experience and key feel when using either switch, as the distance allows for consistent feedback during typing or gaming. With both switches having identical travel distances, whoever chooses them can be assured of uniform results in terms of key actuation and overall performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 lacks specific descriptions of its auditory characteristics, making it difficult to determine how it compares directly to other switches. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, producing sharp, crisp, and vibrant auditory feedback as you type. The use of a long, two-staged spring contributes to the deep, resonating thocks, enhancing the typing experience with a lively auditory punctuation. If you prefer a brighter and more percussive sound, the Shadow (Ink) variant might be preferable, while the Ocean's sound remains ambiguous.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Ocean again has no specific details provided, leaving its tactile feedback a mystery. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring boasts a wealth of tactile qualities, such as being sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. The sharp tactile feedback ensures a strong and crisp bump with each keystroke, making them feel distinctly responsive. The accented nature offers a balance between intensity and comfort, while the snappy responsiveness accentuated by the unique spring design adds a lively, engaging typing experience. The bouncy feel can also contribute to an enjoyable rebound sensation, further enhancing the user’s interaction with the keyboard.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Ocean remains a bit of an enigma regarding its sound and feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a well-defined experience characterized by its bright auditory profile and rich tactile feedback. If you are looking for a highly tactile switch with a pleasing sound, the Shadow (Ink) will likely deliver what you're seeking, whereas the Ocean either remains neutral or undefined, suggesting that if you prefer a key switch known for its tactile bump and engaging auditory response, the Shadow (Ink) might serve you better.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a smooth typing experience with a notable absence of resistance, the Ocean might be the right choice for you, particularly if you value a lighter touch without a heavy tactile feedback. However, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile sensation with a medium to high level of feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is your go-to. Its distinctive, sharp thock sound and strong tactile bump cater to users who enjoy an invigorating typing experience, making it great for both typing and gaming. Additionally, the Shadow switch offers a snappy and bouncy feel that adds liveliness to each keypress, perfect for those who appreciate a tactile response. Therefore, consider your typing habits: if you lean towards a subtle, effortless keystroke, go for the Ocean; but if you want an engaging and responsive experience, the Shadow (Ink) will serve you well.
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