Outemu Silent Ocean vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, both linear switches offer unique qualities for typing enthusiasts. The Silent Ocean is characterized by its unique features, while the Sea Salt Lemon stands out for its smooth and buttery typing experience due to its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. The Silent Ocean falls into the category of high-pitched switches, while the Sea Salt Lemon is known for being low-pitched, neutral, and mild. Each switch has its distinct advantages, making them suitable choices for different preferences. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In terms of aesthetics, having a clear polycarbonate top housing is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, this similarity means that both switches will likely have a similar sound profile when it comes to the top housing material.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Silent Ocean and Sea Salt Lemon differ, with the Silent Ocean having a nylon bottom housing while the Sea Salt Lemon also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This means that both switches will likely have a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, as they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing material.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and KKT Sea Salt Lemon may be the same, the bottom housing materials differ. This means that the typing experience for these switches may vary slightly, with the Silent Ocean offering a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, and a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon will also have a sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate top housing, but will also offer a deeper and fuller sound profile from its nylon bottom housing.
Weight
Both the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial keystroke pressure. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Ocean is heavier at 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon is lighter at 53 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming where a lighter touch is desired. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer users a choice between a medium-light and medium-heavy typing experience, catering to different preferences based on weight preference.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance. This can result in a consistent typing experience for users who prefer a shorter travel distance compared to switches with longer distances. Overall, the travel distance of both switches offers a quick and responsive typing experience that may appeal to those who prefer a shallower key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80.
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 reputation, whereas the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon switch will provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, making it suitable for most users in various settings. However, it's essential to remember that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch does not have a defined feel, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch is described as mild. This suggests that the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a gentle and approachable typing experience, appealing to a wide range of users due to its safe middle-ground characteristics. Users can expect a smooth and consistent feel while typing with the Sea Salt Lemon switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Ocean and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silent Ocean switch lacks specific descriptors in these aspects, the Sea Salt Lemon switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, as well as its mild and gentle typing experience. Ultimately, individuals may find that both switches can provide similar results in terms of overall performance, but the Sea Salt Lemon switch may be more appealing for those looking for a smoother typing experience with a unique sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more neutral sound profile, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a buttery smooth typing experience and a gentle feel, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Happy typing!
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