Outemu Silent Ocean vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Silent Ocean is known for its silence, offering a quiet typing experience, while the Polaris Purple is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump and snappy sound profile that enhances the typing experience. The Silent Ocean falls under the category of linear switches, providing smooth keypresses without the need to overcome any tactile feedback, making it ideal for gamers and those who prefer a consistent feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple belongs to the tactile switch category, offering a satisfying bump with each keypress, which is favored by typists who enjoy a more tactile response. 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
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This shared material choice results in a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches also makes them ideal for use with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to their design. However, while both switches share this common feature, the Silent Ocean distinguishes itself with a nylon bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, the Outemu Silent Ocean and SP-Star Polaris Purple offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Ocean's use of nylon in the bottom housing results in a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. This contrasts with the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile overall. When typing on these switches, users may notice a difference in the impact and bottom-out sound, depending on whether they are using the Silent Ocean with nylon or the Polaris Purple with polycarbonate.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Polaris Purple will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the distinction in bottom housing materials sets them apart. The Silent Ocean offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Purple provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether you prioritize a sharper sound profile or a softer typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Silent Ocean requiring 65 grams and the Polaris Purple needing 67 grams. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Silent Ocean, making it a suitable option for extended typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, the Polaris Purple offers a heavier push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches may ultimately come down to personal preference for typing feel and intended usage.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users can expect a consistent and similar tactile feedback. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a moderate travel distance that isn't too short or too long. Whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance with both the Outemu Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Polaris Purple.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 any specific notable characteristics, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is known for its snappy sound profile. The Polaris Purple switch falls under the descriptor of a neutral switch, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various uses. It is important to remember that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch differ in their descriptions. The Silent Ocean switch's feel is not specified, while the Polaris Purple switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. A mild switch like the Polaris Purple provides a gentler typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, a polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the information provided, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Ocean switch lacks specific notable characteristics in both sound and feel, while the Polaris Purple switch stands out for its snappy sound profile and gentle typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel, with the Silent Ocean yielding unknown results and the Polaris Purple providing a nuanced tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a quiet and smooth typing experience, you may want to choose the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be a great choice. With a slightly higher bottom out force, the Polaris Purple provides a mild and polished feel that is both gentle and refined. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a silent and consistent typing experience or a tactile and exhilarating typing experience.
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