Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to specific user needs and preferences. The Outemu Silent Ocean, a linear switch, is generally favored for its quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority, such as shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch, also linear but characterized by its robust construction and smooth typing experience due to its Ly stems, offers a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users may appreciate for its responsiveness and satisfying keystroke feel. While both switches cater to users seeking a linear experience devoid of tactile bumps or clicks, they serve different niches within that category—one enhancing tranquility and the other delivering an engaging sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Silent Ocean Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$3.10 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Silent Ocean and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a similar sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. This uniformity in material choice ensures that both switches share the advantageous properties of polycarbonate, such as its stiffer composition that contributes to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing complements RGB lighting beautifully, enhancing the visual aesthetics of both switches. Therefore, if users are seeking a vivid lighting experience paired with a crisp sound profile, they can expect comparable performance from both switches in this regard.

In contrast, both the Silent Ocean and Tomcat (Heavy) employ nylon for their bottom housing, creating a distinctive contrast in the sound profiles between the top and bottom of the switches. Nylon's softer composition contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, contrasting with the sharper notes produced by the polycarbonate top. This combination of materials means that the overall sound experience will be a harmonious blend of qualities from both the top and bottom housings. Typing on either switch will yield a rounder sound at the bottom of the keypress, thanks to the nylon's sound-absorbing properties, which complements the crisper sound produced when the key is released.

Ultimately, while the two switches share similarities in their top housing materials, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms creates a unique tonal experience for each. Users can expect that pressing either switch will yield a blend of the distinct sound characteristics inherent to the materials: the sharper resonance of polycarbonate from the top and the muted fullness of nylon from the bottom. This duality gives both the Silent Ocean and Tomcat (Heavy) their unique auditory identities, making them appealing choices for different user preferences while maintaining overlapping qualities that ensure satisfying performance.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Silent Ocean requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This difference suggests that the Silent Ocean may be more suitable for users seeking a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or long gaming periods, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize comfort over a more substantial feel. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch may appeal to those who prefer a firmer push for a more significant tactile experience. In terms of bottom out forces, the Silent Ocean has a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Tomcat (Heavy), which has a bottom out force of 64 grams. Overall, while both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, the Silent Ocean is the lighter option for actuation, while the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a stronger actuation feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the Silent Ocean features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Silent Ocean switch offers a more traditional and deeper feel when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch, with its 3.6 mm travel distance, caters to those who favor quicker response times, typically desired by gamers who benefit from shorter travel distances. Thus, if you prioritize a deeper, more substantial typing experience, the Silent Ocean would be the better choice, whereas if you seek a snappier and more responsive action, the Tomcat (Heavy) would suit you better.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is known for its quiet operation, ideal for environments where noise is a concern. This makes it a superb choice for office settings or shared spaces. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch features a resonant sound profile, providing an audible feedback that may appeal to users who enjoy a more traditional keyboard experience. While both switches are linear in nature and therefore lack a tactile bump, the Tomcat's sound can create a more engaging typing ambiance. It's important to note that the ultimate sound experience can vary depending on the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Silent Ocean switch does not have a specific notable characteristic, which suggests it may offer a smooth typing experience typical of linear switches. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) is specifically highlighted for its Ly stems, contributing to a super smooth typing experience with possibly more substantial resistance. This difference means that while both switches may offer smooth operation, the Tomcat might provide a more pronounced sensation of weight, making it preferable for users who enjoy a bit of heft in their keystrokes.

In summation, both the Outemu Silent Ocean and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches cater to different user preferences. The Silent Ocean excels in providing a quiet typing environment, while the Tomcat offers a more resonant sound and a unique feel attributed to its design. Depending on your priorities, either switch can deliver an enjoyable typing experience, but if sound engagement and a potentially heavier keystroke are desired, the Tomcat may be the superior choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, consider your priorities in sound and feel. If you value a moderately weighted linear switch that promotes a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ocean is an appropriate choice, especially in shared spaces or quiet environments where sound can be disruptive. On the other hand, if you seek a switch that offers a super smooth typing experience and a resonant sound profile, the Tomcat (Heavy) is an excellent option. Its Ly stems contribute to a unique tactile feedback that some typists find satisfying. Ultimately, the decision should align with your typing environment and personal preference, ensuring that you choose a switch that enhances your overall keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Silent Ocean Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more