Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Outemu Phoenix offer distinct experiences for users. The Silent Ocean is a linear switch with a reputation for None, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix is a clicky switch that stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a unique and satisfying tactile response. With its crunchy and polished feel, the Phoenix delivers a crystalline and sparkling sound profile that sets it apart from other clicky switches. While choosing between these switches may depend on personal preference and typing style, it's important to consider the specific characteristics of each switch. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Outemu Phoenix lies in their bottom housing materials. While the Silent Ocean features a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Phoenix opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This means that typing on the Silent Ocean switches will provide a more mellow typing experience due to the sound absorption properties of nylon, while typing on the Phoenix switches will result in a crisper and more resonant sound thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate.
In terms of their top housing materials, both the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Outemu Phoenix utilize polycarbonate, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of switches enhances the sound quality and allows for RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. Whether you choose the Silent Ocean or the Phoenix, you can expect a consistent sound profile and aesthetics provided by the polycarbonate top housing. However, the bottom housing material will be the key factor in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch, with nylon offering a mellower experience compared to polycarbonate.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Outemu Phoenix comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience. If you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile with more sound absorption, the Silent Ocean with its nylon bottom housing would be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharper and crisper sound with clear resonance, the Phoenix with its polycarbonate bottom housing would be more suitable. Both switches offer a consistent sound profile due to their shared polycarbonate top housing, ensuring a high-quality typing experience regardless of your choice.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, there are noticeable differences. The Silent Ocean has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Phoenix, whose actuation force is unspecified but is likely heavier due to the nature of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Phoenix has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams. While the Silent Ocean provides a more medium-heavy typing experience with a lighter actuation force but heavier bottom out force, the Phoenix offers a medium typing feel with potentially heavier actuation force and a slightly lighter bottom out force. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their force requirements, catering to individuals who prefer either a lighter or heavier feel for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Phoenix clicky switch has the shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Ocean linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Phoenix clicky switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean linear switch with its longer travel distance may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences in typing or gaming styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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 switch is known for its quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is recognized for its unique click mechanism that produces a crunchy and satisfying sound reminiscent of walking on autumn leaves. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, with the Silent Ocean being a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing environment, while the Phoenix is ideal for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced clicky sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean is known for its smooth and linear keypress, providing a consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a polished feel, with smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. The Phoenix switch's under-skirt click mechanism adds an extra layer of tactility, making each keypress feel more satisfying and responsive than the Silent Ocean's linear action. Overall, the Silent Ocean provides a quiet and consistent typing experience, while the Phoenix delivers a tactile and satisfying feel that enhances the typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Ocean provides a quiet and linear typing experience, making it a great choice for those who prioritize a noise-free environment. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch offers a unique clicky sound and a polished feel, catering to individuals who enjoy a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a quiet and smooth typing feel or a tactile and clicky experience, both switches offer exceptional qualities that are sure to enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Silent Ocean would be a good choice for you. However, if you enjoy a unique and crystalline clicky sound with a medium bottom out force, along with a polished and smooth typing feel, then the Phoenix switch would be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what features you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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