Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB present two distinct yet compelling options that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Silent Ocean is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes, making it ideal for gamers and typists who seek a swift, uninterrupted typing experience without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is a tactile switch that boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a unique sound profile, delivering a satisfying "thock" upon bottoming out while remaining quiet at the top. This makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of each keystroke without the loud noise of traditional switches. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, whether you prioritize silence or tactile feedback. 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
65g
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, the differences in their housing materials significantly influence their sound profiles and overall performance. The Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a clearer resonance. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary "boba plastic" blend for its top housing, designed to yield a softer and deeper sound profile. This distinction suggests that while both switches provide clear and vibrant acoustics, the Silent Ocean will deliver a more crisp audio experience, whereas the U4Tx RGB is likely to create a more mellow and rich tonal quality.
The bottom housings of both switches showcase a similarity in their materials, as both the Silent Ocean and U4Tx RGB employ nylon and the proprietary "boba plastic," respectively, both recognized for their sound-absorbing properties. The nylon in the Silent Ocean effectively provides a fuller and deeper sound due to its softer plastic composition, which dulls sound and enhances its roundness. Similarly, the bottom housing of the U4Tx RGB, made from "boba plastic," offers a robust depth to its acoustic signature. This shared characteristic means that both switches will produce a desirable low-end sound, despite their different top housing materials affecting the overall sound experience.
In practical application, the combination of the differing top and bottom housing compositions leads to unique auditory qualities when the switches are engaged. For both switches, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in influencing the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when typing, while the top housing will govern the release sound after a key is pressed. Thus, while users can anticipate varied experiences due to the contrasts in top materials, the deeper undertones produced by the bottom housings in both switches will likely resonate in a similar manner. Whether you prefer the sharper clarity of the Silent Ocean or the softer richness of the U4Tx RGB, both switches offer compelling sound profiles shaped by their unique material compositions.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we find interesting similarities and differences in their force specifications. The Silent Ocean has a specific actuation force of 45 grams, making it somewhat lighter and conducive to longer typing sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB does not have a specified actuation force, which leaves us unable to directly compare it to the Silent Ocean in that regard. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 65 grams, which is categorized as medium-heavy—indicating that while both switches will provide a substantial key feel upon bottoming out, the Silent Ocean offers a lighter actuation for those who prefer a softer touch. This makes the Silent Ocean potentially more suitable for users seeking comfort over extended typographical tasks, whereas the U4Tx RGB's unspecified actuation may appeal to users who favor a tactile response without the need to assess actuation force. Overall, the Silent Ocean is the lighter option, and both switches provide a solid bottoming out experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch differ in their travel distances, with the Silent Ocean featuring a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the U4Tx RGB's shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance can influence the feel and responsiveness of each switch, catering to varying user preferences. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx RGB, as it allows for quicker key presses and potentially faster response times, while users who appreciate a more substantial depth when typing might find the Silent Ocean's 4 mm travel more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's desired typing experience—whether they prioritize speed and responsiveness or a deeper tactile feedback.
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 RGB 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 sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is relatively muted and designed to create a quieter typing experience, making it ideal for those who work in shared spaces or prefer a less intrusive auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch produces a unique and enhanced auditory characteristic, merging a deep "thock" when bottoming out with the soft sound of the U4's topping out. This combination offers a satisfingly rich auditory experience, making the typing sound more engaging while still maintaining a lower noise level compared to many traditional tactile switches.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Ocean linear switch provides a smooth, consistent push with no tactile bump, which allows for fluid keystrokes that many typists find enjoyable for long sessions of typing or gaming. This linear action is ideal for users who appreciate a straightforward, uninterrupted keypress. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB tactile switch features a pronounced tactile bump, offering a noticeable feedback upon actuation, which can help typists accurately gauge when their keypress is registered, enhancing precision and satisfaction with each keystroke. This tactile feedback caters to users who enjoy that distinct confirmation that their input has been acknowledged.
In essence, both the Outemu Silent Ocean and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to different preferences, particularly in sound and feel. The Silent Ocean is best for those seeking a quieter, linear experience, while the U4Tx RGB combines a rich auditory profile with tactile feedback for a more immersive typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for sound and tactile sensation, but both options promise to provide high-quality keystrokes suitable for various typing needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you're looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience, especially in shared spaces or while gaming late at night, the Silent Ocean might be the better option for you. With its medium-heavy actuation force, it can provide a comfortable and responsive feel without being overly loud, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a stealthy performance. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback during your typing sessions and enjoy the rich sound profile that comes with a pronounced bump, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB will likely suit your needs better. Its refined sound and tactile sensation can enhance your typing experience, especially if you delight in that satisfying "thock" sound when bottoming out. In essence, consider your work environment, whether you value sound dampening or tactile feedback more, and choose accordingly to enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
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