Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Durock Sea Glass mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches, offering a smooth keystroke experience without tactile feedback. The Silent Ocean switch is known for its silence while typing and falls under the category of a linear switch. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series by Durock stands out with its captivating pastel colors and unique typing experience characterized by dryness, wispiness, and airiness. Despite the 62g bottom-out force, the Sea Glass switches feel weightless and frictionless, boasting a hollow sound signature. While the Silent Ocean switch may appeal to those seeking a quiet typing experience, the Sea Glass switch attracts users who appreciate a distinctive feel and sound 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent Ocean and Durock Sea Glass both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate which resonates sound clearly. On the other hand, the Sea Glass has a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing that produces a pleasant, brighter sound that is not particularly sharp. While both provide unique sound profiles, the Silent Ocean's polycarbonate is clearer and sharper compared to the Sea Glass's blend which is brighter and more pleasant.
In terms of bottom housing, the Silent Ocean utilizes a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Sea Glass's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the bottom housing offers a unique sound profile that is described as pleasant and bright. Both materials provide a different feel and sound experience when typing, with the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Ocean offering a deeper sound profile compared to the Sea Glass's blend which is brighter and pleasant.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Silent Ocean and Durock Sea Glass housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference and the sound profile you are looking for in your keyboard switches. While the Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and clearer sound, the Sea Glass's blend offers a brighter and more pleasant sound experience. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Ocean provides a deep and fuller sound compared to the Sea Glass's blend, which is described as bright and pleasant. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Silent Ocean has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Sea Glass's 62 grams. This means that the Silent Ocean switch offers a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Sea Glass. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Sea Glass may be the better option, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Silent Ocean for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional switches. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Sea Glass switch. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may gravitate towards the Silent Ocean switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches provide a smooth keystroke experience while offering a slightly different feel in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept low. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch produces a uniquely hollow sound that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. However, it's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard casing and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is described as smooth, while the Durock Sea Glass switch is known for its frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press qualities. The Sea Glass switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. These characteristics place the Sea Glass switches in a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to a wide range of users looking for a comfortable and responsive typing feel.
Overall, both the Outemu Silent Ocean and Durock Sea Glass switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Silent Ocean excels in providing a quiet typing experience, the Sea Glass stands out with its smoothness, lightness, and distinct sound signature. Depending on your priorities in terms of sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, with their distinct characteristics and exceptional performance, users can expect similar results in terms of comfort and responsiveness from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, consider the feel and sound profile that best suits your preferences. If you value a medium-heavy bottom-out force and are looking for a standard linear switch option, the Silent Ocean may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the unique pastel colors, airy typing experience, and lightweight feel of the Sea Glass switches, then the Durock Sea Glass linear switch may be more in line with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and the characteristics that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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