Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both fall under the linear switch category, offering smooth keystrokes without tactile feedback. The Silent Ocean is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A introduces innovative features such as reduced travel distances and factory lubing techniques, appealing to users looking for a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature. While both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, it's essential to delve deeper into their specific attributes to determine which one would best suit your preferences. 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
50g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Gateron Type A switches differ in terms of their top housing material. The Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Type A uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softer nature. While the Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing is more likely to be used in switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Type A's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
The bottom housing materials of both switches, however, are made of nylon in both the Silent Ocean and Gateron Type A switches. Because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches will have a similar quality due to the nylon material used in their bottom housings, creating a consistent typing experience in this aspect.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Gateron Type A switches result in distinct sound profiles. The Silent Ocean's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a clear and resonant sound, while the Type A's nylon top and bottom housings produce a deeper and rounder sound. However, both switches share the benefit of using nylon in their bottom housing, providing a consistent feel and sound profile when bottoming out the keys. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Outemu Silent Ocean has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Type A's 50 grams. However, the Outemu Silent Ocean has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Gateron Type A has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Outemu Silent Ocean offers a slightly lighter typing experience when initially pressing the keys, but requires more force to fully press down compared to the Gateron Type A. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balance between ease of typing and a solid feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed. With both switches offering a travel distance of 4 mm, users can expect consistent feedback and performance regardless of which one they choose. As a result, whether you opt for the Outemu Silent Ocean or the Gateron Type A linear switch, you can expect a similar travel distance when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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 remains relatively unknown in terms of its specific qualities. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is recognized for offering a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement. This results in a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean and Gateron Type A are not clearly defined in the provided information. It is important to note that the feel of a switch is often highly personal and can vary greatly between individuals based on preferences for actuation force, smoothness, and tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the specific sound and feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean and Gateron Type A linear switches may not be fully described here, it is evident that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. Whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience or a specific tactile feel, exploring and trying out different switches is the best way to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup. And while the exact qualities may differ, both switches are constructed for smooth, linear actuation, ensuring a consistent typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Silent Ocean may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams and a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Gateron Type A could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer different advantages in terms of actuation force and sound profile, so it is important to consider your personal typing style and preferences when choosing between the two.
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