Outemu Silent Ocean vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, offer distinct typing experiences. The Silent Ocean is noted for its silent operation and categorized as a smooth linear switch. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is best known for its medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its unique two-staged spring design. The Shadow switch variant produces deep, resonating thocks when typing and falls under categories like 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped'. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent Ocean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Silent Ocean has a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Shadow Double Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile similar to its top housing.
Despite some differences in housing materials, both the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer a unique typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch. With the Silent Ocean, the nylon bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the all-polycarbonate construction of the Shadow Double Spring results in a consistent sharp and clear sound profile both during keypress and key release. These differences in housing materials showcase how varying combinations can impact the typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Silent Ocean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the Shadow Double Spring's consistent polycarbonate construction. Whether you prefer a switch with a split housing design for nuanced sound variations or a uniform sound profile, both options provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is apparent that the Silent Ocean is lighter overall. With an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Silent Ocean provides a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is slightly lighter and falls into the medium category. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective actuation and bottom out forces, providing options for users who prefer lighter or heavier weights. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force levels.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches have an equal distance that they travel from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience when using either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 linear switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a noiseless typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch does not have any specific descriptors provided, so it is unclear how it feels during use. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is highlighted by its sharp and accented tactile bump, providing a strong feedback sensation with each keypress. Additionally, the switch has a snappy and bouncy feel, giving it a lively and responsive typing experience. The stepped design of the switch gives users a distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation, adding to the overall tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Ocean switch provides a quiet typing experience, while the Shadow switch delivers a sharp and resonating sound profile. When it comes to feel, the Silent Ocean's tactile experience is unknown, whereas the Shadow switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with a strong and prominent feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a smooth and silent typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, along with deep thocks and a sharp, clacky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the perfect match. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a silent typing experience or a more tactile and audible one. Whether you choose the Silent Ocean or the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
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