Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it's important to consider your typing preferences and needs. The Outemu Silent Ocean is a linear switch that is known for its smooth keystrokes and lack of audible noise. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch that offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump when typing, along with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4 also boasts a whisper-quiet sound profile, making it a great option for those looking for a tactile switch without the loud clacking noise. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Gazzew U4 both offer unique sound profiles based on the characteristics of the plastics used. The Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile. Both materials have their own advantages, with the polycarbonate being stiffer for a clear and resonant sound, and the Gazzew blend being softer to absorb more sound and create a rounder tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Silent Ocean's nylon material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound for a duller tone. Similarly, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing provides a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Although they are different materials, both nylon and the Gazzew blend contribute to enhancing the overall sound of the switch by absorbing sound and creating a deeper tone.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of each switch, it is evident that the characteristics of the housing materials play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switch. The Silent Ocean divides its stiffer polycarbonate top housing and softer nylon bottom housing to create a balance between a sharp top-out sound and a deep bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 utilizes its proprietary blend for both top and bottom housings to deliver a rich and deep sound profile throughout the typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer similar results in terms of creating a unique and pleasing sound profile due to the qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Silent Ocean has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the U4's 62 grams, making it slightly heavier overall. Typists who prefer a lighter touch may prefer the U4 with its slightly lighter bottom out force, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, those who like a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Silent Ocean for its heavier bottom out force. In terms of actuation force, both switches offer a similar typing experience, providing consistent results for users who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of travel distance, the U4 tactile switch has a shorter distance compared to the Silent Ocean linear switch. The 0.4 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the U4 tactile switch. On the other hand, some may find the longer travel distance of the Silent Ocean linear switch to provide a more satisfying keypress with a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer contrasting experiences. The Silent Ocean is known for being quiet, but specific descriptors are unavailable. On the other hand, the U4 switch is described as having a muted sound profile, which produces a softer and quieter noise compared to regular switches, along with a low-pitched tone that adds a calming bass-heavy quality. Both switches offer a quiet typing experience, but the U4 may provide a more unique and enjoyable sound for users seeking a distinct auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch lacks specific descriptors, while the Gazzew U4 switch is characterized as sharp. The sharp tactile bump of the U4 switch provides high feedback intensity, delivering a strong and crisp tactile response with each keystroke. This intense feedback can enhance typing accuracy and make the typing experience more engaging for users who prefer a pronounced tactile feel in their switches. Overall, the U4 switch offers a more pronounced tactile sensation compared to the Silent Ocean.
Considering all available information, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Ocean provides a quiet typing experience without specific sound or feel descriptors, making it a reliable choice for users who prioritize noise reduction. In contrast, the U4 switch delivers a unique muted sound profile with a low-pitched tone and a sharp tactile bump that enhances the typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the Silent Ocean for a quiet typing experience or the U4 for a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch would be a solid choice. However, if you prefer a medium tactile switch with a bottom out force of 62 grams, the Gazzew U4 switch would be a great fit for you. The U4 switch is best known for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, as well as its plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. It also offers a whisper quiet sound profile due to its muted and low-pitched characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the Silent Ocean and U4 switches will come down to your preference for linear or tactile feel, as well as the sound profile you desire for your typing experience. Happy typing!
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