Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Outemu Silent Ocean is a linear switch known for its silence, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is a tactile switch that offers a unique blend of tactile feedback and quiet operation. The U4Tx switches are designed to provide a satisfying tactile bump while maintaining a refined sound profile that is both deep and sharp. When deciding between these two switches, the Silent Ocean may be preferred for its silent operation, while the U4Tx may be chosen for its combination of tactile feedback and subdued acoustics. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Gazzew U4Tx, it is evident that both switches use unique materials to achieve specific sound profiles. The Silent Ocean utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the plastic's stiffness. On the other hand, the U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the materials differ in terms of stiffness, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing distinct auditory feedback.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Silent Ocean employs nylon, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the U4Tx also utilizes the proprietary Gazzew blend for its bottom housing, delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both switches use their respective materials to achieve a distinct sound profile that caters to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, while the housing materials used in the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Gazzew U4Tx differ, they both aim to enhance the typing experience by providing unique sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Ocean creates a sharp and crisp sound, while the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4Tx delivers a rich and deep sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Ocean produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx enhances the overall sound experience with its softness. In essence, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that there are differences in weight that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Silent Ocean has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gazzew U4Tx, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Ocean requires 65 grams, whereas the U4Tx requires 62.5 grams. This means that while the Silent Ocean is lighter in terms of actuation force, it is heavier when it comes to bottoming out. The U4Tx, on the other hand, provides a medium weight feel for both actuation and bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing or gaming sessions, or a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The shorter travel distance of the U4Tx may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Silent Ocean may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
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 U4Tx 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
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is known for providing a smooth keystroke with no tactile bump. This results in a quiet typing experience that is ideal for those who prefer a more subtle keypress sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a unique combination of a deep "thock" sound when bottoming out, accompanied by a quiet topping out sound. The sharp tactile bump in the U4Tx ensures that every keypress is felt distinctly, providing a satisfying and luxurious typing experience.
Overall, the Silent Ocean and U4Tx switches offer different sound profiles and tactile feels to cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a quieter typing experience with a smooth keypress, the Silent Ocean may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile bump and a deeper sound profile, the U4Tx switch would be an excellent option. Both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience, and choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, you should opt for the Silent Ocean if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not particularly concerned with sound and feel. On the other hand, choose the Gazzew U4Tx if you desire a medium bottom out force and prioritize a refined, quiet sound profile with a sharp tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. The U4Tx switches offer a harmonious blend of tactile satisfaction and acoustical pleasure, making them a top choice for those seeking a premium typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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