Outemu Ocean vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Ocean and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear stand out for their unique features and qualities. The Ocean, a tactile switch, is known for providing a tactile feedback that enhances typing accuracy and satisfaction. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear is praised for its noise-reducing design and exceptional responsiveness, making it ideal for creating a quiet and efficient work environment. While the Ocean offers a more traditional typing experience with its tactile feedback, the WS Silent Linear provides a smoother and quieter typing experience without the use of silicone dampeners. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Ocean and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both feature housing materials that play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The Ocean's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharp, high-pitched sound profile due to its stiff nature, while the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in sound profiles can make a difference in how typing feels and sounds on each switch, catering to different preferences.
Additionally, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which further enhances the depth and fullness of the sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This consistency in housing material for the bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the Outemu Ocean and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear. However, the impact of the bottom housing will be more noticeable during bottom-out, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom housings of the switches provides a unique typing experience for each. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Outemu Ocean creates a sharper, clearer sound on top and a deeper, fuller sound on the bottom. In comparison, the WS Silent Linear offers a rounder, fuller sound profile throughout due to its consistent use of nylon. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that the Ocean is lighter with an actuation force of 55 grams, while the WS Silent Linear is heavier with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The Ocean has no bottom out force information available, while the WS Silent Linear has no actuation force listed. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ocean may be the preferred choice, especially for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the WS Silent Linear due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the WS Silent Linear the shorter option between the two. The Ocean offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with neither being overly shallow or deep. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and whether you prioritize faster response times or a more tactile feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Ocean comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear comes in at $4.20.
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 does not have a specific reputation or descriptor. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is known for being neutral, muted, and subdued depending on the source. These qualities suggest that the WS Silent Linear switch offers a quieter typing experience compared to the Ocean switch, making it a suitable option for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch does not have a defined description of its tactile feel. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience that falls within a safe and comfortable middle-ground zone. This suggests that the WS Silent Linear switch may offer a smoother and less pronounced tactile feedback compared to the Outemu Ocean switch, which could be preferred by individuals who prioritize a more subtle typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles, it is important to remember that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the best switch for each person. If a quieter typing experience with a mild tactile feel is desired, the WS Silent Linear switch may be the preferred choice. However, if the sound and feel characteristics of the Ocean switch are more appealing, similar results in terms of typing satisfaction can still be achieved. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand is the best way to determine which one suits your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you value a silent typing experience without the use of silicone dampeners and enjoy a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the WS Silent Linear may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with an unknown bottom out force and other unique features, the Outemu Ocean could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences, so take into account your typing style, environment, and desired sound and feel when making your decision.
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