Outemu Silent Ocean vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean and the KTT Phalaenopsis offer distinct experiences for users. The Silent Ocean is a linear switch that is best known for its silent operation, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch that boasts a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The Phalaenopsis also features a satisfying tactile bump at 50g, ensuring a delightful keystroke experience. While the Silent Ocean may appeal to those looking for a quiet typing experience, the Phalaenopsis may be preferred by those who enjoy a tactile response while typing. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent Ocean and the KTT Phalaenopsis both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, creating a more resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, their bottom housings differ. The Silent Ocean utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a sharp and clear sound profile with a resonant quality.
The contrast between the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Ocean and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis provides a distinct difference in sound characteristics. The softness of nylon in the Silent Ocean contributes to a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out the keys. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the clear and sharp sound profile associated with this material. While the top housing material impacts the sound upon key release, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and overall feel of the switch. This distinction in bottom housing materials can greatly influence the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches like the Outemu Silent Ocean and the KTT Phalaenopsis plays a crucial role in determining sound profiles and typing experiences. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, offering a sharp and crisp sound profile, perfect for RGB lighting setups. However, their bottom housing materials differ, with the Silent Ocean utilizing nylon for a deeper sound and the Phalaenopsis sticking to polycarbonate for a more resonant quality. This distinction in bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, showcasing how subtle changes in housing materials can impact the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that the Silent Ocean is heavier overall. The Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is heavier than the Phalaenopsis's 37 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Silent Ocean is 65 grams, while the Phalaenopsis bottoms out at 50 grams, making it lighter in comparison. The weight of a switch is crucial as it can impact typing comfort and fatigue. Those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Phalaenopsis for longer typing sessions, while individuals who enjoy a stronger push for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Silent Ocean. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches allows for consistent typing experiences whether using the Silent Ocean or the Phalaenopsis.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Outemu Silent 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 Silent Ocean linear switch is known for its quiet operation, providing a noise-free typing experience that is ideal for office environments or shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as having a bassy and thocky sound profile, offering a deeper and richer typing sound that can be quite satisfying to the ears. However, it is important to note that the actual sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch does not have a specified feel indicator. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as having a stepped feel, meaning that it provides a two-stage tactile feedback during key presses. This unique feel can offer a more nuanced typing experience compared to traditional linear or non-stepped tactile switches.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is preferred for its silent operation, making it a great choice for those who prioritize a quiet typing environment. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch stands out for its distinctive stepped tactile feel and bassy, thocky sound profile, providing a tactile and auditory typing experience that can be quite enjoyable for enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a silent typing experience, the Silent Ocean may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom out force, a satisfying tactile bump, and a beautiful translucent design, the Phalaenopsis switch is a great option to enhance your typing experience. Additionally, if you appreciate a bassy and thocky sound profile, the Phalaenopsis switch may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, preferences, and desired typing experience.
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