Outemu Ocean vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Ocean and Gateron Type A offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch that is best known for its responsive feedback and satisfying click. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative design, optimal for those looking for a medium-weight switch with a deep sound signature. While the Ocean provides a tactile typing experience, the Type A offers a smooth linear feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Ocean and the Gateron Type A, one key difference lies in their top housing. The Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Type A boasts a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate in the Ocean provides a more resonant and clear tone, while the nylon in the Type A delivers a rounder and duller sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Ocean and Type A switches utilize nylon for this component. As a result, both switches elicit a deep and full sound profile during typing due to the absorption properties of nylon. The softer nature of nylon allows for a smoother typing experience, creating a dull and round sound upon bottoming out. While the top housing may influence the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
In instances where the top and bottom housings differ, as seen in the Outemu Ocean and Gateron Type A, the qualities of each material are distributed throughout the switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon releasing a key. Despite the varying materials used in each switch, the overall typing experience may yield similar results in terms of sound profile and feel. Ultimately, the choice between a polycarbonate top housing (Ocean) and a nylon top housing (Type A) may come down to personal preference for the type of sound and typing experience desired.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Ocean has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Type A has a medium-light force of 55 grams, whereas the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. This means that while the Type A requires a lighter touch to activate a keystroke, it provides a slightly heavier feel when fully pressed compared to the Ocean. The difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly different typing experience for users, with the Type A offering a more consistent resistance throughout the keystroke. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Type A, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Ocean. Both switches can provide similar results in terms of overall typing experience, depending on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This can result in a similar typing experience in terms of the depth of the keypress. Overall, while both switches offer the same travel distance, users can choose between the tactile feedback of the Outemu Ocean or the smooth linear feel of the Gateron Type A based on their personal preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Ocean comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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 known for its lack of distinct sound characteristics, making it a versatile option for various environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. The Type A's subdued sound when pressed provides a more subtle auditory experience compared to other switches. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, specifics on the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch are not provided. However, it can be assumed that the Ocean switch may offer a tactile bump during key presses based on its naming convention, while the Type A linear switch likely provides a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke. The tactile bump of the Ocean switch can offer feedback to the user, while the smooth linear feel of the Type A switch may be preferred by those who desire a consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and potentially feel. While the Ocean switch provides a neutral sound, the Type A switch offers a subdued sound profile. The Ocean switch may offer a tactile bump, while the Type A switch likely provides a smooth linear keystroke. To achieve similar results in sound and feel, it is recommended to consider factors such as keyboard construction, keycap material, and personal preferences when selecting between these two switches.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a lighter touch with no bottom out force and prefer a tactile feel, the Ocean may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a linear switch with a deep sound profile, the Type A may be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should depend on your personal typing preferences and the specific usage scenarios in which you plan to use the keyboard. Make sure to choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and requirements for a satisfying typing experience.
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