Outemu Ocean vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Outemu Ocean and the Dareu Snow. The Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch, known for its unique characteristics such as a pronounced bump at the actuation point. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow is a linear switch that distinguishes itself with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature while typing. Each switch has its own strengths: the Ocean for its tactile feedback and the Snow for its smooth linear feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
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 Dareu Snow, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize sound clarity in their typing experience. However, the Dareu Snow takes a different approach with its POK top housing, which boasts exceptional smoothness and durability. While both materials offer unique benefits, the polycarbonate in the Ocean may deliver a more resonant sound, while the POK in the Snow offers a smoother and clackier typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Outemu Ocean and the Dareu Snow feature nylon in this component. Nylon is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite utilizing the same material for their bottom housings, the two switches may have different overall sound profiles based on how the nylon interacts with the rest of the components. Therefore, while both switches offer a similar sound experience with nylon bottom housings, the Outemu Ocean and the Dareu Snow may still exhibit distinct sound characteristics.
In general, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. While the Outemu Ocean and the Dareu Snow share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the specific qualities of these materials contribute to unique sound profiles and tactile feedback. Whether one prefers the sharpness and clarity of polycarbonate in the Ocean or the smoothness and durability of POK in the Snow, both switches offer different typing experiences that cater to varying preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the feel and sound of typing, making it essential for users to consider these factors when choosing a switch for their mechanical keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Ocean has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Snow's 50 grams, making the Ocean slightly heavier in terms of initial force needed to register a keypress. However, the bottom out force of the Snow at 60 grams is heavier than that of the Ocean, which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that while the initial keypress on the Ocean may require more force, the Snow requires more force overall when fully pressing down on a key. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Snow may be the better choice, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ocean. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for each individual user.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Ocean switch offers a longer travel distance, making it ideal for those who prefer a deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the Snow switch provides a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ocean being slightly longer than the Snow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch is known for its subjective qualities in sound and feel, while the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a unique experience in both aspects. When it comes to sound, the Ocean does not have a specific descriptor, making it more of a neutral option in terms of sound profile. On the other hand, the Snow switch is described as "thocky," which means it produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. The use of POK material in the Snow switch contributes to this deeper sound signature, providing a rich auditory experience for the user. Additionally, the low-pitched nature of the Snow switch adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to the typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Ocean switch does not have a specific descriptor, making it hard to determine its exact feel. However, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as "bouncy," offering a spring-like feedback sensation when pressed. This bouncy feel provides a lively experience for the user, giving a sense of rebound with each keystroke. This unique feel sets the Snow switch apart from traditional linear switches, adding an element of fun and liveliness to typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in sound and feel. While the Ocean switch provides a neutral sound profile and an unknown feel, the Snow switch stands out with its thocky sound signature and bouncy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel in their mechanical keyboard. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, and users can expect satisfying results with either option.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Ocean switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a deeper sound profile with a bouncy feel, the Snow switch could be the better option. Assess your typing style and preferences to determine which switch would enhance your overall typing experience the most.
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