Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Outemu Tom offer different tactile experiences for users. The Silent Ocean is a linear switch, providing a smooth and quiet keystroke, ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Tom is a tactile switch, offering a pronounced tactile bump for users who enjoy a more tactile feedback while typing. Both switches have their own unique strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Overall, both the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Outemu Tom share the same polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes both switches ideal for users who appreciate a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. In terms of aesthetics and sound, users can expect similar results from both the Silent Ocean and the Tom.
However, where the two switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Tom also features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile as the Silent Ocean. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel from both switches, despite the difference in their bottom housing materials.
When it comes to the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, users will feel the qualities of the bottom housing in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This means that the bottom housing material, whether it be nylon or polycarbonate, will play a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switch. Conversely, the top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound produced when releasing a key, showcasing the importance of both housing materials in creating a well-rounded typing experience with switches like the Outemu Silent Ocean and Outemu Tom.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is evident that they have different actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Silent Ocean has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Tom's heavier 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Silent Ocean requires 65 grams, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. The Silent Ocean provides a medium-heavy typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Tom switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Tom tactile switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Ocean linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Tom switch may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Silent Ocean switch may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer deeper key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
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 Tom.
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
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is known for being extremely quiet, hence the "Silent" in its name. This switch produces very little sound when pressed, making it a great option for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch provides a satisfying tactile bump when pressed, giving typists a tactile feedback that lets them know when the key press has been registered. This tactile feedback can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Silent Ocean linear switch is known for its smooth key press without any tactile feedback. It provides a consistent linear feel with no bump or click during the key press. In contrast, the Outemu Tom tactile switch offers a tactile bump that can be felt when the key is pressed, giving typists a more tactile typing experience. This bump provides a sense of confirmation with each key press, which can be preferred by those who enjoy the feedback.
Overall, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch offer different typing experiences based on sound and feel preferences. If you prefer a silent typing experience, the Silent Ocean switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile feedback with each key press, the Tom switch would be more suitable. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of these switches can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard you use and the keycaps attached. Experimenting with different combinations can help you find the perfect typing experience for your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, you should choose the Silent Ocean if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a quieter typing experience. The Silent Ocean is a great choice for those who prioritize a smooth and silent typing experience. On the other hand, you should opt for the Outemu Tom tactile switch if you enjoy a switch with no defined bottom out force and a satisfying tactile feedback. The Tom is perfect for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience with a noticeable bump. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, typing sound, and tactile feel.
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