Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, there are some notable differences to consider. The Silent Ocean is best known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switches are renowned for their snappy sound signature, adding a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. While the Silent Ocean offers a noiseless typing experience, the Piano Pro switches provide satisfying auditory feedback. The Silent Ocean is categorized as smooth, while the V3 Piano Pro is categorized as bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, and silky. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Akko V3 Piano Pro feature a nylon bottom housing, which means that they will both provide a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nylon material used in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either of these switches.
In contrast, the top housing materials of the two switches differ significantly. The Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate material in the Silent Ocean creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon material in the V3 Piano Pro's top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the differences in the top and bottom housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Akko V3 Piano Pro will have a noticeable impact. The Silent Ocean's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing means that users will experience sharp, high-pitched sounds when pressing down on keys and a deeper sound when bottoming out. In comparison, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top and bottom housing will provide users with a consistent deep and full sound profile throughout the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, one key difference is in their bottom out force. The Silent Ocean switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it heavier than the V3 Piano Pro switch, which has a bottom out force of 55 grams. However, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that despite the difference in bottom out force, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the V3 Piano Pro switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Silent Ocean switch for a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Silent Ocean offers a more traditional travel distance, while the V3 Piano Pro provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the V3 Piano Pro for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. However, those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may prefer the Silent Ocean with its longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is known for its clacky and resonant characteristics. The Silent Ocean may offer a quieter typing experience compared to the lively and crisp sound signature of the Piano Pro switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Ocean switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the V3 Piano Pro switch is known for being bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky. This means that the Piano Pro switch offers a tactile feedback that is spring-like and elastic, smooth and buttery, refined and sleek, as well as exceptionally smooth. In contrast, the feel of the Silent Ocean switch may not have these specific tactile qualities.
Overall, while the Outemu Silent Ocean and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches may have different sound and feel characteristics, both switches are linear in operation. This means that they provide a consistent keystroke with no tactile bump or audible click. Depending on individual preferences, the Silent Ocean may offer a quieter typing experience, while the Piano Pro may provide a more vibrant and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a quiet typing experience, the Silent Ocean may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a snappy, clacky sound signature, the V3 Piano Pro could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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