Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer two distinct typing experiences. The Silent Ocean is a linear switch that is best known for its silent operation. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that provides a medium level of tactility, making it a great choice for those seeking a more pronounced feedback while typing. The Silent Ocean falls under the category of silent switches, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is categorized as a bouncy switch. If you prefer a quiet typing experience, the Silent Ocean may be the way to go. However, if you are looking for a switch with a satisfying tactile feel and a thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring could be the ideal choice for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring have some similarities, as both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that prioritize clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is visually appealing for switches with RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Silent Ocean utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing.
The choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical switch. In the case of the Silent Ocean, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique typing experience with a sharp top-out sound and a deep bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, with its uniform polycarbonate housing, offers a consistent and crisp sound profile throughout the typing process. The difference in sound and feel between the two switches can be attributed to the contrasting properties of nylon and polycarbonate, with nylon providing a softer and more absorbing quality while polycarbonate delivers a stiffer and more resonant response.
Although the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. While the Silent Ocean combines polycarbonate and nylon to create a unique typing experience with contrasting sound profiles, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains a consistent and sharp sound throughout. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials in a mechanical switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience, influencing factors such as sound, feel, and aesthetic appeal. Whether opting for a combination of materials for a varied typing experience or sticking to a uniform material for a consistent sound profile, the choice between the Silent Ocean and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Silent Ocean requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. This means that the Silent Ocean provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a lighter touch ideal for extended typing periods or gaming sessions. However, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of bottom out force, ensuring consistent results despite the varying actuation forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch are both 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. Both switches offer a consistent travel distance of 4mm, providing a satisfying typing experience for users. With the same travel distance, both switches will offer a similar feel when typing, ensuring that users can expect consistent performance whether they choose the Silent Ocean or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Overall, the travel distance of these switches contributes to a consistent typing experience, regardless of which switch is chosen.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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 linear switch is best known for providing a quiet typing experience, perfect for those who prefer minimal noise while typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, which adds a satisfying auditory element to typing sessions. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycap combination being used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Silent Ocean is known for providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility, providing a bouncy sensation when typing. This gives the keys a lively feel, adding a dynamic element to the typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Ocean and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with no tactile feedback, the Silent Ocean switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile switch with a deep sound profile and a bouncy feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, the right switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a smooth linear switch without any added features, the Silent Ocean is a solid choice. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a medium level of tactility with a bouncy feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is a great option. Consider your typing experience, sound preferences, and desired level of tactility when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
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