Outemu Ocean vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch, to the KTT Wine Red, a linear switch, one can see clear differences in their characteristics. The Ocean is categorized as tactile, while the Wine Red is best known for its intoxicating and satisfyingly deep sound profile, making it perfect for those who enjoy a bassy and low-pitched typing experience. Each switch offers unique benefits – the Ocean for its tactile feedback and the Wine Red for its smooth linear feel. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
44g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Ocean and the KTT Wine Red, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, the Outemu Ocean differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing, which creates a sharper and more resonant sound.
The use of nylon in the Outemu Ocean's bottom housing results in a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, contributing to a duller and rounder sound profile when typing. This contrasts with the KTT Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing, which is stiffer and provides a clearer and crisper sound profile. The difference in bottom housing materials highlights how the characteristics of each material can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. While the top housings of both switches are made from polycarbonate, the different bottom housings result in distinct typing experiences for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Outemu Ocean and KTT Wine Red plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing feel. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and resonant sound, the distinction in bottom housing materials demonstrates how different plastics can create unique typing experiences. Understanding the impact of each housing material on sound and feel can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences and typing style.
Weight
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the KTT Wine Red linear switch with an actuation force of 44 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Ocean switch is unknown, while the Wine Red switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it heavier in comparison. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Wine Red switch would be more suitable, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean switch would appeal to users who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer their own advantages based on individual preferences, with the actuation force affecting the initial keystroke while the bottom out force impacting the overall typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, we find that both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will feel the key travel a total of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results as they offer the same distance for key press. It can be concluded that there is no significant difference in the travel distance between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Ocean comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is not known for a specific sound profile, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch is praised for its bassy and low-pitched sound characteristics. The Ocean's sound profile would likely be more neutral or subdued compared to the deep and rich tone of the Wine Red switches. When typing on Ocean switches, you may experience a quieter and less pronounced sound compared to the more robust sound of the Wine Red switches, which offer a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, specific information about the tactile feedback and actuation force of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is unknown, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch is described as providing a pillowy light type feel. This suggests that typing on the Wine Red switches may feel softer and cushioned compared to the Ocean switches, which may have a different tactile experience.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a deep and rich sound profile along with a pillowy light type feel, the KTT Wine Red linear switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and tactile feedback that is still to be determined, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch could be a good option. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch for you, so trying out different switches and considering factors like sound, feel, and typing experience on your specific setup will ultimately help you find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Ocean tactile switch or the KTT Wine Red linear switch, you should think about your preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience without a distinct tactile bump, the Outemu Ocean switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-light keypress with a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red linear switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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