Outemu Ocean vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Ocean and the Gazzew U4T mechanical keyboard switches, we see two tactile switches that offer distinct qualities. The Outemu Ocean is known for its subtle tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, providing a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T stands out for its harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, delivering a bassy 'thock' sound profile with assertive feedback. The Outemu Ocean falls into the category of a tactile switch, while the Gazzew U4T is categorized as having a 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Sharp' profile. Both switches have their merits, with the Outemu Ocean offering a more subtle tactile experience and the Gazzew U4T providing a more pronounced and satisfying feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Ocean and Gazzew U4T both utilize unique housing materials to create distinct sound profiles for mechanical keyboard switches. The Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the U4T's Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While the Ocean's top housing focuses on creating a clearer and resonant sound, the U4T's top housing aims to provide a more immersive and deep typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Ocean utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties. On the other hand, the U4T's Gazzew blend bottom housing shares similarities with its top housing, providing a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Both switches prioritize creating a pleasant typing experience through their unique housing materials, with the Ocean focusing on a rounder sound and the U4T emphasizing a deep and immersive typing sound.
Despite their differences in housing materials, the Outemu Ocean and Gazzew U4T both strive to enhance the sound profile and typing experience of mechanical keyboard switches. While the Ocean's top and bottom housings utilize polycarbonate and nylon, respectively, to create a clearer and deeper sound, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings work harmoniously to deliver a rich and deep typing experience. Regardless of the specific housing materials used, both switches prioritize creating a unique and enjoyable sound profile for users to appreciate.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Ocean tactile switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we can see significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ocean has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the U4T, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ocean has no information available whereas the U4T has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that while the Ocean may provide a lighter typing experience, the U4T offers a more substantial and tactile feel. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ocean for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the U4T for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them identical in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of keypress feel and response. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable travel distance for typing or gaming activities, making them reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Ocean comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50.
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 doesn't have a specific reputation, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is known for its bassy and thocky sound profile. The U4T offers a deep and rich sound during key presses, with a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness of bass tones, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Ocean's sound characteristics are not defined, so it may not offer the same level of richness and depth as the U4T.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch doesn't have a specific description, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is praised for its sharp tactile feedback. Sharp tactile switches are recognized for their intense feedback, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keystroke. This means that the U4T offers a pronounced tactile experience that may be more satisfying for users seeking a highly tactile typing feel compared to the Ocean.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch both offer tactile feedback, they differ in their sound and feel characteristics. The U4T stands out for its bassy and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience, along with its sharp tactile feedback that delivers a strong and crisp bump with each keypress. On the other hand, the Ocean's sound and feel qualities are not clearly defined, so it may not deliver the same level of auditory and tactile satisfaction as the U4T. Ultimately, if you are looking for a switch with a rich sound profile and intense tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4T may be the better choice for you.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, the Ocean may be the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the U4T could be the better option. Additionally, if you prioritize a switch with a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, the U4T might be the one to go for. Overall, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound profile, tactile feedback, and bottom out force to ensure the best typing experience for you.
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