Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean and Outemu Silent Yellow both offer a linear typing experience without the distracting clicky sound. The Silent Ocean switch is categorized as a silent switch, while the Silent Yellow switch falls under the same category. The Silent Ocean switch is best known for its smooth keystrokes, whereas the Silent Yellow switch is renowned for its slightly firmer feel. While both switches may seem similar at first glance, there are subtle differences that may sway your decision. However, let's explore the specifics so you can make the best choice.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Outemu Silent Yellow, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. With both switches sharing this top housing material, users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing on either the Silent Ocean or the Silent Yellow.
However, where the Silent Ocean and Silent Yellow differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Silent Ocean features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience to the Silent Ocean with its ability to produce a deep and resonant sound.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Outemu Silent Yellow provides a unique typing experience. While the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a role in the sound and feel when bottoming out a key. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches offer a balanced sound profile that caters to a variety of preferences. Whether using the Silent Ocean or the Silent Yellow, users can expect a pleasant typing experience with distinct characteristics brought about by their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Ocean is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, compared to the Silent Yellow's 65 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Ocean requires 65 grams, while the Silent Yellow requires 80 grams, making the Silent Ocean the lighter option overall. Both switches provide a silent typing experience, but the Silent Yellow offers a heavier and more substantial typing feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter keystroke may opt for the Silent Ocean, while those who prefer a heavier feel may choose the Silent Yellow for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer consistent and reliable performance, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. While other factors may differentiate these switches, such as actuation force and sound levels, their travel distance remains the same.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Silent Ocean and Silent Yellow.
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, both the Outemu Silent Ocean and Outemu Silent Yellow switches are known for their quiet operation, making them suitable for environments where noise is a concern. The Silent Ocean switch may have a slightly softer bottom out sound compared to the Silent Yellow, but both switches provide a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by the keyboard case and keycap material used.
In regards to feel, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch offers a smooth linear typing experience with a light actuation force, providing a comfortable sensation for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch also offers a linear feel but with a slightly heavier actuation force, which can provide a more tactile feedback for those who prefer a firmer keystroke. Both switches are known for their durability and consistent performance over time.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Silent Ocean and Outemu Silent Yellow switches offer a quiet and smooth typing experience, with the main difference lying in the actuation force required for each switch. If you enjoy a lighter keystroke, the Silent Ocean may be the better choice for you, while the Silent Yellow may be preferred by those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch or the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is important to take into account your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Silent Ocean with 65 grams may be more suitable for you compared to the Silent Yellow with 80 grams. Additionally, if you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ocean may be a better choice as it is designed to reduce noise. However, if you enjoy a heavier bottom out force and are indifferent to noise levels, the Silent Yellow may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and your specific typing needs.
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