Outemu Silent Ocean vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Silent Ocean and the SP-Star RedBlue. The Silent Ocean is a linear switch that is best known for its unique characteristics, while the RedBlue linear switches stand out for their medium-light typing experience. The Silent Ocean offers a smooth keystroke without the audible clicking noise, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback with a relatively low-pitched sound profile, perfect for users who enjoy a thocky and polished 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
57g
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the SP-Star RedBlue switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding to their aesthetic appeal. However, the Silent Ocean utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing, which provides a sharper and clearer sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound experience.
The differing bottom housing materials of the Silent Ocean and the RedBlue switches contribute to distinct sound profiles for each. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent Ocean produces a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue results in a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in material impacts the overall typing experience, with the Silent Ocean offering a more mellow sound profile and the RedBlue delivering a more pronounced and defined sound. On the other hand, both switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, leading to similar attributes in terms of sound clarity and resonance.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the SP-Star RedBlue switches play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a distinctive sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. However, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing of the Silent Ocean and polycarbonate for the RedBlue creates differences in sound depth and texture. Ultimately, whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound (Silent Ocean) or a sharper and crisper sound (RedBlue) will depend on personal preference and typing goals.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Silent Ocean has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the RedBlue, where the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the RedBlue is lighter at 57 grams, while the Silent Ocean has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Silent Ocean offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the RedBlue provides a lighter touch for potentially longer typing sessions. Depending on personal preference, some users may lean towards the Silent Ocean for a more tactile feel, while others may prefer the lighter touch of the RedBlue for extended use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the intended use of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results. Overall, there is no difference in travel distance between the Outemu Silent Ocean and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 switch does not have a specific sound profile that it is known for. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as low-pitched, neutral, and thocky. This means that the RedBlue switches will provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, making them suitable for most users whether they are beginners or advanced. The sound produced by the RedBlue switches is deep, rich, and satisfying, giving a satisfying feel to the typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch does not have specific attributes that it is known for. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as mild and polished. This means that the RedBlue switches offer a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, with characteristics that fall within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the polished finish of the RedBlue switches provides a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. Overall, the RedBlue switches are designed to offer a comfortable and pleasant typing experience for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches stand out for their low-pitched, thocky sound profile, as well as their mild and polished tactile feel. These switches are suitable for those looking for a medium-light typing experience with a satisfying sound and smooth key travel. In comparison, the Outemu Silent Ocean switches may offer a different typing experience in terms of sound and feel, but users can still expect a similar level of quality and performance from both switches. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking for.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Silent Ocean may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a low-pitched, thocky sound profile, the RedBlue switch would be a great fit. Consider your typing style and sound preferences when making your decision, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on what feels and sounds best to you personally.
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