Outemu Ocean vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Outemu Ocean and the Wuque Studio WS Onion presents an intriguing dilemma. The Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch, while the WS Onion is a linear switch that boasts a smooth keystroke feel with a neutral sound profile, thanks to its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. While the Ocean may appeal to those seeking a tactile typing experience, the WS Onion is the preferred choice for those looking for a buttery smooth feel. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Ocean and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. As a result, both switches offer a visually appealing and acoustically satisfying typing experience due to the properties of polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Outemu Ocean and the Wuque Studio WS Onion feature nylon housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to stiffer plastics. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches enhances the overall typing experience by providing a more satisfying sound profile.
Although both switches share the same top and bottom housing materials, the distribution of these materials plays a significant role in the typing experience. The qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a key, the bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing the key. This distribution ensures a balanced and nuanced typing experience for users of both the Outemu Ocean and the Wuque Studio WS Onion.
Weight
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch is lighter than the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch in terms of actuation force, with the Ocean requiring 55 grams compared to the Onion's unknown force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Onion is heavier at 63.5 grams compared to the Ocean's unknown force. This means that the Ocean may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the WS Onion offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. In both cases, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force, but will feel a difference in the pressure required to bottom out the key.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. Users can expect similar results when using either switch, as the travel distance remains the same. Overall, both the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer a comfortable and familiar typing experience with their identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 maintains a mysterious quality as its sound profile is not well-documented or widely known in the mechanical keyboard community. On the other hand, the WS Onion linear switch is revered for its neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for users looking for an understated typing experience. The choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and the overall sound profile you desire in your typing setup.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Ocean switch also lacks detailed descriptions or reviews regarding its tactile sensation. In contrast, the WS Onion linear switch is praised for its buttery smooth keystroke feel, providing a seamless and satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the WS Onion switch features a polished finish, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a refined and effortless typing feel, the WS Onion switch may be the ideal choice for you.
Overall, both the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the WS Onion linear switch have their own unique qualities to offer to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Ocean switch has a sense of mystery surrounding its sound and feel, the WS Onion switch is praised for its neutral sound profile and buttery smooth keystroke feel. Depending on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, either of these switches could provide a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of None and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Ocean may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams and enjoy a buttery smooth keystroke feel with a neutral sound profile, the WS Onion may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer different benefits and it comes down to personal preference and typing style when making your decision. Happy typing!
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