Outemu Ocean vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Ocean and the Jwick Taro mechanical keyboard switches, both are tactile switches that offer a satisfying typing experience. The Ocean is best known for its unique design and excellent performance, while the Taro stands out with its cozy typing experience and comfortable color scheme. The Ocean falls under the category of tactile switches, whereas the Taro is classified as neutral, buttery, and stepped. If you're looking for a switch with a more pronounced tactile feedback and a snappier typing experience, the Taro might be the way to go. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
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
The Outemu Ocean and Jwick Taro both use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiff nature, providing a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate for their top housings.
On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean and Jwick Taro differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Ocean utilizing nylon and the Taro also opting for nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the difference in top housing materials, the use of nylon in the bottom housing provides a consistent typing experience across both switches.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials interact with each switch, it becomes evident that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it lighter than the Jwick Taro switch, whose actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Taro switch requires 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Ocean switch has an unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Outemu Ocean switch would be the more suitable option. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Jwick Taro switch would be the better choice. In either case, both switches provide a tactile typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of key feedback and responsiveness.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Ocean has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Taro, which means it will require a bit more force to press down on the keys. Gamers may prefer the Taro for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during gameplay. However, those who prefer a more satisfying keypress with a bit more depth may lean towards the Ocean. In terms of overall responsiveness, both switches will provide a similar experience despite the slight difference in travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 being neutral, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch is described as having acute and crisp clacks, giving it a unique auditory experience that adds to the overall typing sensation. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's material and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Ocean switch's tactile feel is unknown. In contrast, the Jwick Taro switch is described as providing a buttery feel, giving users a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Taro switch is noted for having a stepped tactile feel, meaning it offers a more subtle tactile sensation compared to switches with a more pronounced bump. This can result in a typing experience that is comfortable and less fatiguing over prolonged use.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Ocean and Jwick Taro switches may have different sound and feel profiles, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile with moderate tactility or a more tactile but smooth keystroke experience, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for you, so it's essential to consider factors such as typing style, work environment, and desired typing feel when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Ocean tactile switch or the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Ocean switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a snappy and cozy typing experience, the Taro switch may be more suitable. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a buttery, stepped feel, the Taro switch would be a good option. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities, so it is important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.
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