Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Ocean offer distinctive experiences for users. The Dustproof Black is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch, offering a slight tactile bump to indicate the actuation point, enhancing the typing experience for users who prefer feedback. Both switches are known for their durability and reliability, but the Dustproof Black excels in its dustproof design, making it ideal for environments where dust and debris may be a concern. 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Ocean switches both share the same polycarbonate top housing material, which brings a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile to both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it an ideal choice for those looking to add some visual flair to their keyboard setup. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Dustproof Black features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Ocean also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While both switches have the same top housing material, the key difference lies in their bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of both the Dustproof Black and Ocean switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature compared to harder plastics. Typing on these switches will feel similar in terms of sound and feedback due to the shared bottom housing material. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel will be noticeable when using either switch. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing will shine through during typing sessions, providing a satisfying and rounded sound experience.
In terms of housing materials, the Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Ocean switches offer a similar typing experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing. Both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, making them appealing choices for those looking for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches also contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether you choose the Dustproof Black or Ocean switch, you can expect a consistent and enjoyable sound and feel while typing, thanks to the quality materials used in their construction.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch which has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams. The bottom out force of the Dustproof Black is also heavier at 80 grams, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Ocean switch, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Dustproof Black switch. Both switches provide different tactile experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, they both offer a consistent and smooth keystroke experience, however, they differ in the tactile feedback they provide. The Dustproof Black is a linear switch, providing a fluid and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump, while the Ocean is a tactile switch, offering a noticeable bump when pressing down on the key. Despite these differences, the travel distance remains the same for both switches, resulting in similar results in terms of distance traveled when typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either a linear or tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Dustproof Black and Ocean.
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 Dustproof Black linear switch is typically quieter compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch. This is due to the linear nature of the Dustproof Black switch, which produces a smooth and consistent sound with each press. On the other hand, the Ocean tactile switch is known to have a more pronounced sound as the tactile bump creates an audible feedback when actuated. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch provides a smooth keystroke with no tactile feedback or audible click. This makes it a popular choice for those who prefer a consistent typing experience without any distractions. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch offers a tactile bump at the actuation point, providing users with a satisfying feedback when typing. This tactile feel can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance and feedback while typing.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Black switch is known for its quiet operation and consistent keystrokes, while the Ocean switch provides a tactile feedback and audible click. Depending on personal preference, both switches can provide a unique typing experience that caters to different user needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch or the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier switch with a linear feel and are looking for a switch that is more resistant to dust and debris, the Dustproof Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a tactile bump for a more pronounced typing experience, the Ocean switch may be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics and it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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