Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Haimu Viola Tricolor stand out as notable options with their unique characteristics. The Silent Ocean, a linear switch, is best known for its smooth and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a silent keypress. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor, a tactile switch, offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to typing, along with a pronounced tactility that provides satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. The Viola Tricolor is categorized as 'Accented', 'Bassy', 'Invigorating', and 'Low-pitched', providing users with a sharp sensation without overwhelming them. Both switches have their own distinct advantages, 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Haimu Viola Tricolor feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for better light diffusion if RGB lighting is incorporated. However, while both switches utilize the same material for the top housing, they may still have distinct characteristics based on other design elements.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the Silent Ocean and the Viola Tricolor contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound due to the material's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the characteristics of the bottom housing material.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for switches like the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Haimu Viola Tricolor plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile and nylon bottom housings for a deeper sound, the unique combination of these materials in each switch may result in subtle differences in overall performance. Whether you prefer a crisper or fuller sound, the housing materials of these switches will ultimately impact your typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, which has a unspecified force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 65 grams and 63.5 grams respectively, falling within the medium-heavy range. The Silent Ocean switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, while the Viola Tricolor switch could be favored by users who prefer a more substantial push feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches offer slightly different typing experiences, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Viola Tricolor being slightly shallower. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Viola Tricolor for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Silent Ocean. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
The Outemu Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 switch is not well known for a specific sound profile. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is praised for its bassy and low-pitched sound characteristics, offering a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. The Viola Tricolor switch brings a touch of character to typing sessions with its thuddy and punchy sound, adding to the overall tactile satisfaction.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch lacks a distinctive description of its typing experience. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is recognized for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback. This means that users can expect a medium level of tactile sensation that is not overwhelming but still offers a satisfying amount of feedback. The Viola Tricolor switch provides a snappy and reactive feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Considering the information provided, if you are looking for a switch with a unique sound profile and a balanced tactility, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch would be a great choice. Its bassy sound and accented tactile feedback offer a pleasant and engaging typing experience. However, if you prefer a quieter option with a more subtle typing feel, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a silent typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Silent Ocean may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a thuddy and punchy sound profile, along with pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, the Viola Tricolor could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you want your typing experience to sound and feel, so choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
