Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Kailh Sage mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal typing preference. The Silent Ocean is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation. On the other hand, the Sage switch offers a more tactile and audible typing experience with its distinct clickiness and heavy weight. The Silent Ocean may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Sage switch is ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying click and feedback while typing. 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 housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Kailh Sage share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
However, where the Silent Ocean and the Sage differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Silent Ocean utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Sage also features a nylon bottom housing, showcasing consistency in their choice of housing material, and indicating a preference for the sound profile that nylon contributes to the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Kailh Sage use polycarbonate for the top housing, their distinction lies in the bottom housing material. The split qualities between the bottom and top housing influence the typing experience, with the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both switches aim to provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Silent Ocean requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sage, which has a non-specified actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Sage is slightly heavier at 70 grams compared to the Silent Ocean's 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy category, making them suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Users who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Silent Ocean, while those who enjoy a stronger push may lean towards the Sage for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the overall typing feel of the switches, with each offering a unique typing experience based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Sage has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Ocean. The Silent Ocean provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who are looking for a more traditional typing experience or enjoy a bit more feedback. On the other hand, the Sage's shorter travel distance may be favored by gamers or individuals looking for a faster response time from their keyboard. Both switches offer smooth key presses, but the slight difference in travel distance may make a notable impact on the overall typing experience depending on personal preferences.
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 Sage 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 it comes to sound, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is known for its quiet operation, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh Sage switch offers a unique clicky sound that is crisp and crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. The sound produced by both switches will ultimately be affected by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Silent Ocean switch's tactile feedback and actuation force are not well-known. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch offers a firm actuation force and a sharp tactile bump that provides a snappy and reactive typing feel. This high feedback intensity can create an immersive sensation for typists who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience with each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Ocean provides a quiet typing experience, while the Sage switch delivers a crunchy clicky sound and invigorating tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. While the Silent Ocean and Sage switches offer unique qualities, individuals seeking a similar typing experience can expect comparable results in terms of overall quality and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Silent Ocean may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a distinct clicky typing sensation with a heavier bottom out force and a sharp clickiness, the Kailh Sage switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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