Outemu Silent Ocean vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile switches can greatly impact the typing experience. The Outemu Silent Ocean is a linear switch that offers a smooth and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle and noise-free keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck is a tactile switch that provides a gentle tactile feedback while typing, with a clean and crispy sound profile. If you're someone who enjoys a bit of feedback and a satisfying click while typing, the Duck switches might be the perfect choice for you. 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
58g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Duck, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Aesthetically, the translucent quality of polycarbonate is ideal for switches featuring RGB lighting. However, while the Silent Ocean utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Duck opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile. This distinction in bottom housing material may result in slightly different typing experiences between the two switches.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the overall feel and sound of the switches, the Silent Ocean's combination of polycarbonate top housing for key release sound and nylon bottom housing for bottom-out sound creates a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck's choice of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing may result in a more consistent sound profile throughout typing. While the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Ocean absorbs more sound and creates a duller sound profile, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck offers a more resonant and clear sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Silent Ocean and the SP-Star Duck offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences due to their housing materials. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Silent Ocean creates a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, while the SP-Star Duck's consistent use of polycarbonate generates a clear and resonant typing experience. Whether one prefers a crisper sound profile with the Silent Ocean or a sharper sound with the Duck, both switches showcase the versatility of housing materials in customizing mechanical keyboards to suit individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the Silent Ocean requires a lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Duck, which is unknown. However, the Silent Ocean has a heavier bottom out force at 65 grams, while the Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams. Overall, the Silent Ocean provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, whereas the Duck offers a lighter actuation force for quick keystrokes. Both switches offer a medium force profile, but the Silent Ocean leans towards a heavier feel, while the Duck provides a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing style and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the travel distance between the two switches, it is important to note that despite being the same length, the tactile nature of the Duck switch may provide a different typing experience compared to the linear Silent Ocean switch. While both switches will travel the same distance when pressed, the Duck switch may offer a more tactile feel due to its design, providing feedback to the user when actuated. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switch, being a linear switch, will offer a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke without the tactile bump. Despite these differences in typing experience, the travel distance for both switches remains constant at 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, which means it strikes a balance between being audible without being distracting. When it comes to feel, the Silent Ocean switch's qualities are not specified, but the Duck switch provides a mild and buttery typing experience. This indicates that the Duck switch offers a smooth and gentle keystroke, resulting in a comfortable and satisfying typing sensation.
Overall, if you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a subtle tactile feedback and a smooth keystroke, the SP-Star Duck switch would be your go-to option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so try them out to see which one aligns with your typing preferences and needs. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Silent Ocean or the Duck switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with reliable performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a silent typing experience, the Silent Ocean may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a gentle tactile typing experience with a clean sound profile, the Duck switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Experimenting with different switches can help you find the perfect fit for your typing needs.
Mentioned in this article
