Outemu Silent Ocean vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy options are the Outemu Silent Ocean and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, both of which are linear switches designed to enhance your typing experience. The Outemu Silent Ocean is recognized for its smooth keystroke, making it a popular choice for those who prefer uninterrupted typing without tactile bumps. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is celebrated for its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, delivering a nearly silent typing experience akin to the gentle sound of raindrops, which can be particularly appealing for users in shared spaces or quiet environments. While the Silent Ocean offers a more traditional feel characterized by ease of press and consistency, the Silent Sakura caters to those seeking a softer touch and a uniquely tranquil typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent Ocean and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches feature distinctly different housing materials in their top and bottom components, which significantly influence the sound profiles and tactile experiences when typing. The Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate material for its top housing, giving it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiff nature, which fosters a clear and resonant audio feedback during typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the switch. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g incorporates a nylon top housing, known for its softer characteristics that create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results in a more subdued auditory experience, as the nylon absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a rounder sound quality during usage.
When examining the bottom housing, the differences continue to manifest. The Silent Ocean's bottom housing is made of nylon, which contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g features a polycarbonate bottom housing aimed at producing a sharper sound. This variation means that pressing the keys will produce different sonic qualities: the nylon bottom housing from the Silent Ocean will absorb some of the sound, giving users a softer bottom-out feel, while the hard polycarbonate of the Silent Sakura's bottom will enhance clarity and brightness. Consequently, the Silent Ocean's combination allows for a nuanced typing experience with a blend of clear reverb and subdued bass, whereas the Silent Sakura produces a more pronounced and lively keystroke feedback.
Ultimately, while both switches leverage a combination of nylon and polycarbonate housing materials, their differing configurations create unique typing experiences. If one were to use both switches, they would notice the Silent Ocean offers a balanced sound profile with hybrid qualities, enhancing overall typing satisfaction with its crisp tops and soft bottoms. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g leans into a more lively sound, where the clear top amplifies sharpness while the bottom supports a more pronounced presence. This combination guarantees that while both can deliver outstanding results, users will experience tonal and tactile distinctions depending on the unique characteristics of the respective top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Silent Ocean requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Silent Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of only 43 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This means that if you prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Silent Sakura would be more advantageous, offering less strain over long periods. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience may favor the Silent Ocean due to its heavier feel. Ultimately, while the actuation and bottom out forces differ significantly between the two switches, they cater to distinct preferences based on desired typing sensations and user comfort.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch have identical travel distances of 4 mm. This means that users can expect similar feel and feedback when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. With both switches featuring the same travel distance, they should provide comparable performance in typing and gaming scenarios, making either choice effective depending on other preferences such as actuation force or sound profile. Since both switches offer the same travel distance, users will experience a similar key press sensation and engagement depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50.
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 sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is characterized by a quiet operation, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a less disruptive typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is specifically engineered for a whisper-quiet typing experience, likened to the gentle patter of raindrops. This indicates that both switches are designed to minimize noise; however, the Silent Sakura's deliberate focus on sound suggests it may offer an even more refined auditory experience compared to the Silent Ocean.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Ocean switch lacks detailed description, which makes it difficult to evaluate its tactile response completely. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g switch is noted for its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, tailored for light typists who prefer effortless keystrokes that promote a smooth and serene typing experience. This significant difference in actuation force indicates that while the Silent Ocean's feel is unknown, the Silent Sakura is designed for quick and comfortable typing.
In summary, both the Outemu Silent Ocean and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches prioritize a quiet typing experience but may appeal to different preferences due to their varied attributes. The Silent Sakura, with its specifically engineered light actuation force and sound profile, is ideal for users seeking a delicate and silent keystroke. While the Silent Ocean is also positioned as quiet, its undefined feel suggests that users might have a more variable experience. Overall, if you desire a soft and silent typing solution, either option will provide relative quietness, but the Silent Sakura may deliver a more specialized advantage in both sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, you should consider both your typing preferences and the environment in which you typically use your keyboard. The Silent Ocean, with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, is ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile feedback and require a bit more resistance while typing. This can be beneficial for users who often engage in intense gaming or heavy typing, where a firmer switch might enhance accuracy and reduce accidental key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g, with its ultra-light 43 grams actuation force, is tailor-made for those seeking a whisper-quiet typing experience. This switch is particularly suited for lighter typists or anyone working in a quiet office setting, as its gentle actuation makes it easy on the fingers while significantly minimizing noise. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a heavier, more controlled typing experience or a lighter, quieter touch.
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