Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Huano Sakura

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean and Huano Sakura both present intriguing options for users seeking linear switches, yet they cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Silent Ocean, though lacking specific standout features, is reputed for its smooth actuation and quiet performance, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize a serene typing environment, such as in shared spaces or during late-night sessions. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura excels with its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, providing a comfortable and responsive typing experience that is especially beneficial for extended periods of use. Each switch offers unique advantages: the Silent Ocean promotes minimal disturbance, while the Sakura encourages effortless key presses and a lively sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Silent Ocean Linear

Huano Sakura Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Silent Ocean and Huano Sakura switches exemplify the diversity found in mechanical switch construction through their choice of housing materials. The Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing that is recognized for producing a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clearer sound when the switch is engaged. In contrast, the Huano Sakura utilizes a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and exceptional strength. The POK material's slightly higher coefficient of friction contributes to a durable yet smooth experience, leading to a clacky sound that may be perceived as less crisp than the more pronounced characteristics of polycarbonate. Despite these differences, both materials offer benefits—polycarbonate excelling in clarity and resonance, while POK enhances durability and smooth operation.

In terms of bottom housings, both the Silent Ocean and Sakura utilize nylon, a classic choice in mechanical switches renowned for its sound profile. The nylon in both switches contributes to a deeper, fuller sound, as its softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than the harder materials found in their top housings. This similarity ensures that the bottom-out experience remains consistent in both switches, creating a warm and rounded auditory feedback when typing. Thus, while the top housings differ significantly in material composition and resulting sound profiles, the nylon bottom housing unites the two switches in their capacity to deliver a similar acoustic experience during key presses.

Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Silent Ocean yields a switch that emphasizes clarity and resonance, whereas the Huano Sakura’s POK and nylon mix presents a robust and smooth typing experience. The distinction in their top housings allows users to appreciate different sound profiles when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom contributes a similar depth to the overall typing experience. Consequently, users can expect varying results in both sound and feel, driven by the unique properties of each top housing material, yet enjoy a consistent, rounded auditory response due to the shared nylon construction in the lower sections of both switches.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Ocean requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, classifying it as a light switch. This discrepancy indicates that users who prefer a more substantial typing experience might gravitate towards the Silent Ocean, as its heavier forces provide a more pronounced tactile feedback. Conversely, those who wish to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions may find the Sakura's lighter forces more comfortable and conducive to reduced finger fatigue. Overall, the Silent Ocean's heavier actuation and bottom out forces deliver a firmer feel, while the Sakura provides a smoother and lighter typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there is a notable difference: the Silent Ocean has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sakura measures in at 3.6 mm. This means that the Silent Ocean provides a longer travel distance, offering a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, which some users might appreciate for its depth. Conversely, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Sakura is beneficial for gamers seeking quicker key response times, making it a more responsive option. Thus, if you prefer a hearty depth, the Silent Ocean would likely suit your preference better, whereas those who favor speed may opt for the Sakura.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have a defined sound profile, making it a wildcard in terms of acoustics. However, the Huano Sakura linear switch is noted for its medium acoustics, which provide a balanced auditory experience ideal for long typing sessions. It is important to note that sound characteristics can vary significantly based on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so while you may not have a clear sound signature with the Silent Ocean, you can still create a quiet setup by choosing appropriate components.

When it comes to feel, the Silent Ocean switch lacks specific descriptors but is presumably designed for a smooth actuation with a focus on a quieter experience. In contrast, the Sakura switches are celebrated for their feather-light touch, which allows for easy and quick key presses, making them particularly suitable for extended typing without fatigue. This distinct tactile nature can greatly enhance typing efficiency, offering a different experience compared to the more muted and subtle engagement of the Silent Ocean.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch may not have pronounced sound or feel characteristics readily available, the Huano Sakura switch shines with its feather-light actuation and medium acoustics, making it an excellent choice for users who value ease of use and a balanced sound profile during lengthy typing sessions. If a user seeks a quieter alternative, they can achieve similar results with the right board and keycap selection with either switch, but the Sakura offers a more defined and pleasant typing experience overall.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, consider your typing preferences and use cases. If you prefer a tactile experience with a bit more resistance, especially during long typing sessions where fatigue may become a factor, the Silent Ocean's medium-heavy 65 grams bottom-out force could be your best bet. Additionally, this switch offers a more muted sound profile, which can be ideal in quieter environments or during shared workspaces where noise may be an issue. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a lighter touch that allows for quick keystrokes and comfort during extended typing, the Huano Sakura switch with its 45 grams bottom-out force may be the better choice. The Sakura switches excel in providing a softer feedback, making them suitable for those who favor a smooth, swift typing experience, while still maintaining a pleasant medium level of acoustics. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing style, personal comfort, and environmental considerations when using your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Silent Ocean Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Huano Sakura Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more