Outemu Silent Ocean vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Silent Ocean is known for its quiet operation, perfect for those who prefer minimal noise while typing. On the other hand, the Yoel offers a unique typing experience with a bright and clacky profile, providing a satisfying and pronounced sound with each keystroke. While the Silent Ocean is categorized as a silent switch, the Yoel falls into categories such as clacky, creamy, and resonant. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent Ocean and PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that resonates well, creating clear and distinct sound characteristics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. While both switches share the same top housing material, the slight variations in design and build quality may lead to subtle differences in sound and feel between the two.
In terms of bottom housings, the Silent Ocean utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. These differences in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and typing experience of each switch, providing users with distinct options to suit their preferences.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile, feel, and aesthetics of a keyboard. While both the Outemu Silent Ocean and PH Studio Yoel utilize polycarbonate top housings for similar sound characteristics, their differing bottom housing materials offer unique typing experiences. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile provided by nylon or a deeper and more muted sound profile offered by POM, both switches can cater to a variety of user preferences based on their individual housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Ocean is lighter in both categories. The Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This makes the Silent Ocean more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Yoel offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push. Overall, both switches offer different weights to cater to varying preferences. Users looking for a lighter typing experience would lean towards the Silent Ocean, while those seeking a slightly heavier feel may prefer the Yoel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the PH Studio Yoel linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Silent Ocean offers a more traditional travel distance, making it a good choice for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Yoel provides a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Silent Ocean leaning towards a more substantial feel while the Yoel caters to those seeking quicker key actuation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer contrasting auditory experiences. The Yoel switch is known for its bright and clacky sound profile, providing a crisp and satisfying noise when keys are pressed. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Silent Ocean switch are not explicitly stated, but it can be assumed to have a quieter and more subdued sound compared to the Yoel based on its "Silent" naming convention. If you prefer a louder and more pronounced sound, the Yoel may be the better choice for you.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the PH Studio Yoel is described as providing a creamy and polished typing experience, where each keypress feels smooth and refined. In contrast, the tactile sensation of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is not specified, but it can be assumed to offer a different typing feel compared to the Yoel. Both switches are linear in design, which means they have a consistent and smooth keystroke without a tactile bump or audible click. This results in a straightforward typing experience that may be preferred by those who prioritize smoothness over tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch excels in providing a bright and clacky sound profile along with a creamy and polished typing experience, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch remain unspecified. If you enjoy a more pronounced sound and a smooth typing feel, the Yoel may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience, it is recommended to further research or test the Outemu Silent Ocean switch to determine if it meets your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the subjective qualities that you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ocean may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a more pronounced, clacky sound with a smooth and buttery typing feel, the Yoel switch may be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing style, the environment you'll be using the keyboard in, and your personal preference for sound and feel when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose the one that aligns best with your individual typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
