Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Dareu Sky V4 both offer unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Silent Ocean, while lacking a distinctive feature, is a straightforward linear switch that provides a smooth keypress experience ideal for those who favor minimal sound distraction while typing. Conversely, the Sky V4 stands out with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, which results in a deeper sound signature and a bouncier feel. This distinctive combination not only enhances its smooth linear action but also offers typists a rich auditory experience with its thocky, low-pitched sound. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches may come down to whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience with the Silent Ocean or prefer the satisfying acoustic feedback and bounce of the Sky V4. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Dareu Sky V4, we see distinct differences in their top housing components. The Silent Ocean is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic derives from polycarbonate's stiffness, allowing it to resonate clearly. Moreover, its translucent quality makes it particularly adept for RGB lighting applications, enhancing aesthetic appeal while delivering pronounced sound clarity. In contrast, the Sky V4 utilizes a POK top housing, a material known for its smoothness and exceptional durability. POK's slightly higher coefficient of friction contributes to a distinct tactile experience, making the switches feel comfortable under finger pressure; however, it may not replicate the same acoustic sharpness offered by polycarbonate. Thus, while both switches aim to deliver an engaging typing experience, they leverage their housing materials to achieve different auditory signatures.
On the subject of the bottom housings, both the Silent Ocean and Sky V4 utilize nylon, a classic choice for switch construction. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, creating a deeper, fuller auditory experience when typing, which is consistent between the two switches. As the more elastic material compared to their top housing counterparts, nylon contributes to a more muted sound profile that feels rounder overall. This similarity in bottom housing material means that while the top halves of the switches lead to contrasting sound characteristics, the essence of the typing experience remains familiar, as both switches will provide a substantial bottom-out sound that many typists appreciate.
Overall, the differences in the top housing—polycarbonate for the Silent Ocean and POK for the Sky V4—result in divergent sound profiles and tactile feedback, while both switches share a nylon bottom housing that fosters similar deep sound qualities. When typing on these switches, users will experience a blend of the sharper sounds produced by polycarbonate against the clackiness of POK, while the nylon bottom housing introduces a rounder tone. Ultimately, although each switch has its unique material advantages, the end result is a compelling keyboard experience featuring both distinct and shared auditory elements.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it's notable that both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that users will experience a similar resistance when pressing down to trigger a keystroke. However, the overall feel differs due to their respective bottom out forces; the Silent Ocean has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it feel heavier and providing a more substantial tactile response, while the Sky V4's bottom out force is lighter at 55 grams. This distinction means that the Silent Ocean may be better suited for those who prefer a firmer typing experience, whereas the Sky V4, with its lighter bottom out force, might appeal to individuals looking for less strain during prolonged use, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. Thus, while the actuation forces are the same, the Silent Ocean's heavier bottom out force contributes to its medium-heavy classification, and the Sky V4's lighter bottom out force aligns with its medium-light classification.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Silent Ocean features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for deeper key presses, offering a more pronounced and tactile feel. In contrast, the Sky V4 has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to gamers who often seek quicker response times and a more immediate key actuation. While both switches provide linear feedback, the Silent Ocean could be more suitable for users who enjoy a substantial stroke, whereas the Sky V4 may be favored by those who prioritize speed and responsiveness. Thus, if you prefer a hearty depth, the Silent Ocean is the better choice, making it the longer travel option, while the Sky V4, being the shorter option, is ideal for those who appreciate swift actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
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 lacks significant defining characteristics, leaving an impression that may vary based on the user’s setup and preferences. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is noted for its thocky sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying "thud" with each keystroke, which many typists find enjoyable. This switch offers a neutral tone that fits a wide range of environments, making it suitable for both casual and professional use. Its low-pitched nature adds a bass-heavy quality, further enhancing the auditory experience for users who appreciate a rich sound without venturing into overly crisp or high-pitched frequencies.
In terms of feel, the Silent Ocean switch does not have any documented tactile or feedback qualities that set it apart, so its performance can be quite standard and might not offer the same engagement as more specialized options. In contrast, the Sky V4 is described as bouncy, providing a lively and elastic feedback sensation beneath the fingers. This rebound effect can make typing feel more dynamic and responsive, appealing to users who enjoy a spirited typing experience. This lively feedback can significantly enhance enjoyment when typing for extended periods.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch may come across as more muted in both sound and feel, the Dareu Sky V4 offers a distinctive auditory experience and an engaging bouncy feedback that many typists find appealing. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a vibrant sound and feel, the Sky V4 would be the better choice, whereas the Silent Ocean may serve well if you prefer a more subdued and potentially versatile keyboard experience. Both switches will allow for similar results regarding linear feedback, but the overall enjoyment will likely differ due to the contrasting sound signatures and tactile responses.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you lean towards a firmer feel and prefer a heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Silent Ocean may be more suitable for you, especially if you prioritize durability and a stable typing experience. However, if you're someone who enjoys a lighter touch with the 55 grams of force required for the Sky V4’s actuation, this switch can enhance your efficiency, particularly in fast-paced gaming or touch typing environments. Additionally, the Sky V4’s unique POK material in the housing results in a thocky and low-pitched sound that can make your typing experience more satisfying, along with its bouncy feel adding an element of fun. Conversely, if sound profile and tactile feedback are not your primary concerns and you prefer a switch that minimizes noise, the Silent Ocean may fit your needs better. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you seek a quiet, heavier switch for a stable feel or a lighter, more resonant switch that allows for a lively typing experience.
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