Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are key differences to consider. The Silent Ocean is known for its silent operation, while the Plum offers a unique tactile experience with its hefty feel but subtle bump. The Silent Ocean falls under the category of a linear switch, providing a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Plum is categorized as a tactile switch, offering a moderate tactility without adding too much weight to the keystroke. While the Silent Ocean may appeal to those looking for a quiet typing experience, the Plum stands out for its distinctive tactile feel. 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
70g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Silent Ocean and the Plum both use polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, the difference in sound between the two switches may come from their bottom housing material.
The Silent Ocean uses a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Plum's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using this material for the bottom housing. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Silent Ocean provides a unique sound experience that differs from the Plum's all-polycarbonate housing.
When it comes to how the housing materials affect the overall typing experience, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. While both the Silent Ocean and the Plum feature polycarbonate in their top housing, the use of different materials in the bottom housing results in distinct sound profiles for each switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Plum switch has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the 65 grams of the Silent Ocean switch. This means that while the Silent Ocean may require less force to initiate a keystroke, the Plum switch will provide a firmer typing experience due to the higher bottom out force. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier weight depends on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a medium-heavy weighted typing experience, providing a balance between ease of typing and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is clear that the Silent Ocean has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Plum's 3.6 mm. This means that the Silent Ocean offers a slightly deeper key press experience than the Plum. Gamers who prefer a more responsive key press may lean towards the Plum with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Silent Ocean. Overall, both switches offer slightly different typing experiences due to their varying travel distances, catering to different preferences among keyboard users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 discussing sound, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate level of sound that is suitable for a wide range of users. While the Silent Ocean is specifically designed to be silent, the Plum switch provides a more balanced sound that may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit of feedback while typing. Ultimately, both switches offer pleasant sound profiles that can be enjoyed by various users depending on their preferences and needs.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch does not have a specific feel associated with it in the provided information. Conversely, the Kailh Plum switch is described as feeling mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. Additionally, the Plum switch is noted for its stepped feel, providing a tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still noticeable during typing. This unique combination of a mild feel with a stepped tactile experience sets the Kailh Plum switch apart from other tactile switches on the market, making it a compelling option for those who want a more subtle tactile feedback.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is clear that each switch offers distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Ocean excels in providing a quiet typing experience, while the Plum switch stands out for its unique combination of a mild feel and stepped tactile feedback. Both switches have their own strengths and can appeal to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a silent typing experience or a more subtle but noticeable tactile feedback while typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, you may lean towards the Outemu Silent Ocean. On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a unique weightiness and moderate tactility, the Kailh Plum may be the right choice for you. Ultimately, your decision may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, with the Silent Ocean offering a medium weightiness and the Plum providing a more distinct typing experience with its hefty but subtle tactile bump. Consider your typing style and preferences to determine which switch best suits your needs.
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