Outemu Ocean vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Ocean and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ocean is a tactile switch known for its smooth keystrokes and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura stands out with its snappy response and deliciously buttery downstrokes, providing a satisfying typing sensation. While the Ocean offers a more subtle and neutral sound signature, the Purple Sakura's pronounced tactility adds an extra layer of feedback for those who enjoy a more responsive typing experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Ocean and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to their relatively stiffer nature. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate material is ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard. However, despite both switches having the same material for their top housings, the overall sound profile and feel may vary based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Ocean and Purple Sakura switches utilize nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, which results in it absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound overall. While the bottom housing material may not have as much of a visual impact as the top housing, it plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience by influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, despite sharing similarities in their housing materials, the Outemu Ocean and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches may offer slightly different typing experiences due to the combination of their polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when the key is released. Both switches offer unique sound profiles and aesthetics, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Ocean requires a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the 50 grams needed for the Purple Sakura. However, the bottom out force of the Purple Sakura is 60 grams, while the bottom out force of the Ocean is unknown. This makes the Purple Sakura slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ocean may be a better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force. In summary, while the actuation force and bottom out force of these two switches differ slightly, both can offer a satisfying typing experience depending on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional length. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Gamers may lean towards the Purple Sakura for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Outemu Ocean with its longer travel distance. Both switches have their advantages based on personal preference, with the Ocean offering a deeper key press experience compared to the Sakura's more concise travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on the user's individual typing style and preference for key feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
The Outemu 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 Ocean switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is known for having a neutral sound profile. This means that both switches offer a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various typing scenarios, whether for beginners or advanced users, and whether used at home or in a work environment. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Ocean switch does not have a description provided, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is characterized as buttery, mild, and snappy. The buttery feel of the Purple Sakura switch implies a smooth and fluid typing experience, offering a seamless and effortless sensation with each keystroke. Additionally, the mild characteristic of the switch provides a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable, as it falls within a safe middle-ground zone. The snappy attribute of the switch indicates a super responsive typing experience, adding a lively feel to the overall typing sensation.
Overall, both the Outemu Ocean and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the sound profile of the Ocean switch remains unspecified, the Purple Sakura switch provides a neutral sound that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. In terms of feel, the buttery, mild, and snappy characteristics of the Purple Sakura switch contribute to a smooth, gentle, and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired. Also, considering the similar attributes of the neutral sound profiles, one can expect comparable sound results between the two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Ocean tactile switch or the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, the Ocean might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Purple Sakura could be more suitable. Additionally, if you appreciate a switch with a delicate tactility and a neutral sound signature, the Purple Sakura would be a good option. However, if you are looking for a switch that provides a buttery, mild, and snappy typing experience, the Purple Sakura might be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the qualities that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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