Outemu Ocean vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Smoothie, a linear switch. The Ocean is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying click as you type. On the other hand, the Smoothie is praised for its smoothness and thocky sound signature. The Ocean is categorized as tactile, while the Smoothie falls into categories such as buttery, thocky, low-pitched, creamy, subdued, and silky. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback or smooth keystrokes, each switch offers its own unique qualities that may cater to different typing styles and preferences. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Ocean and the Gateron Smoothie, it is evident that the top housing material differs between the two switches. The Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Smoothie utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the Ocean is more likely to be translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Ocean and the Smoothie use different materials as well. The Ocean employs a nylon bottom housing, renowned for creating a deep and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Smoothie features a POM bottom housing, contributing to a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively muted. Despite the different materials used for the bottom housing, both switches offer a similar result in terms of sound profile, albeit with subtle differences in tone and resonance.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in determining its sound profile and feel. The qualities of the bottom housing material impact the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. While the Outemu Ocean and the Gateron Smoothie use different housing materials for both the top and bottom, they ultimately provide similar results in terms of creating unique and pleasing sound profiles tailored to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the Smoothie is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams, compared to the Ocean's 55 grams. This means that the Smoothie requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it more preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, bottom out force information is not available for either switch. Regardless, users can expect a smoother keystroke experience with the Gateron Smoothie due to its lower actuation force, while the Outemu Ocean may provide a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Outemu Ocean has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Smoothie. The 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Gateron Smoothie with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper keystroke experience may prefer the Outemu Ocean. Both switches offer a unique tactile experience, and selecting the one with the appropriate travel distance can enhance your typing or gaming performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 tactile switch is not known for any specific sound characteristics, making it a bit of a mystery in that regard. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is praised for its thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound profile. This means that the Smoothie switch produces a deep, bass-heavy, and muted sound when pressed, providing a satisfying auditory experience for users. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard chassis and keycap material.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch does not have any standout descriptions related to its tactile feel. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is often described as buttery, creamy, and silky. These descriptors indicate that the Smoothie switch offers a smooth, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, providing a luxurious and enjoyable typing experience for users. The application of lubricant or specific materials in the switch contributes to the silky feel, creating a sensation of gliding across the keys with ease.
In conclusion, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of sound and feel qualities, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch stands out for its thocky sound profile and buttery, creamy, and silky feel. If you prefer a tactile switch with unknown sound and feel characteristics, the Ocean might be a good choice for you. However, if you are looking for a linear switch with a deep, bass-heavy sound and a smooth, luxurious feel, the Gateron Smoothie would be an excellent option to consider. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should choose the Outemu Ocean if you prefer a switch with a tactile bump and quieter sound profile. The Outemu Ocean would be a great choice for those who enjoy the unique feel of a tactile switch without the loud clicking noise. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a thocky sound profile, the Gateron Smoothie would be the better option for you. The Gateron Smoothie offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience that is unmatched in terms of smoothness and sound quality. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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