Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear bring their own unique characteristics to the table. The Silent Ocean is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke experience without the distracting noise commonly associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear by Jwick stands out for its innovative design, providing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a satisfying clacky bottom-out sound. The Semi-Silent Linear is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Polished', while the Silent Ocean's strengths lie in its simplicity and noise reduction. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches are likely to offer similar sound profiles and aesthetics, thanks to their shared top housing material.
However, a point of contrast between the two switches lies in their choice of bottom housing material. The Silent Ocean features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, showcasing a similar sound profile characteristic to that of the Silent Ocean. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches may offer a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the differences between the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear primarily lie in their bottom housing materials, as they both share polycarbonate for the top housing. While the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deep and full sound, the impact of the top housing on the sound when pressing a key and when releasing it should also be taken into consideration. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch differ slightly in weight. The Outemu Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, which has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear for longer typing sessions, while users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Outemu Silent Ocean for its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Silent Ocean has a slightly longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers or those looking for a faster response time. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Silent Ocean being on the longer end and the Semi-Silent Linear on the shorter end. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
The Outemu Silent Ocean switch is known for being a silent switch without any specific standout qualities. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is recognized for its innovative design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as having a subdued sound profile, producing a dampened sound when pressed, making it more subtle compared to most switches. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Silent Ocean switch are not specified, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch does not have any specific descriptors provided. However, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The switch is also labeled as snappy and buttery, providing a responsive and fluid keystroke sensation. Additionally, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Without specific details on the feel of the Silent Ocean switch, it is challenging to make a direct comparison in this category.
Overall, both the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Silent Ocean switch may offer a silent typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative design and semi-silent properties. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can expect a quieter experience with the Jwick switch and a more approachable, polished feel. Ultimately, both switches provide options for a tailored typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their specific preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a silent switch with a neutral sound profile and feel, the Outemu Silent Ocean may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and value a switch with a semi-silent, subdued sound profile and a mild, snappy, buttery, or polished feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear could be more suited to your typing style. Consider your typing environment, personal preferences, and desired typing experience when making your decision between these two innovative switches.
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