HMX Cheese vs. Outemu Lime (V3)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Lime (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Lime offer distinct typing experiences worth exploring. The HMX Cheese switch is a linear switch that provides an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. Known for its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, these ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, making them a popular choice among users seeking a light and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch is a tactile switch that offers a unique combination of lightweight design, approachable tactility, and silence. Perfect for tactile fans looking for a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility, the Lime switch stands out as a great option for those who prioritize a subtle and polished typing feel. 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
43g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Lime, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. The use of nylon in switch housing is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. As a result, typing on keys with either the Cheese or Lime switches will offer a similar sound profile and tactile feel.
While both the Cheese and Lime switches share the same nylon housing material, the impact of this material may differ based on whether it is used for the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing is responsible for influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a larger role in creating the sound when a key is released. This means that the overall typing experience may vary slightly between the two switches, with each housing component contributing unique characteristics to the sound and feel of typing.
Despite the potential differences in how the nylon housing materials of the HMX Cheese and Outemu Lime switches impact typing experience, the use of nylon as a switch housing material ensures a consistent level of quality and performance. The softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics allows for more sound absorption and a deeper sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches. Whether it's the Cheese or Lime switch, the nylon housing provides a reliable and satisfying typing experience that enthusiasts and typists alike can appreciate.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, we can see that both switches have relatively light weights. The Cheese linear switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Lime tactile switch has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In terms of weight, the Lime switch is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, but they both provide a light typing experience overall. This makes them suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel when typing for extended periods of time. The actuation force determines how much pressure is required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force needed to fully press the key down. In this case, both switches offer similar results in terms of weight, making them both good options for users looking for a light and smooth typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, we can see that the Cheese has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Lime's 3.3 mm travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The Cheese switch may provide a slightly deeper key press experience due to its longer travel distance, while the Lime switch might feel slightly more abrupt with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
The Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 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 HMX Cheese linear switch is praised for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making it stand out among ultra-light switches. In comparison, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a more neutral and muted sound profile, making it a suitable choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, but specific descriptors are not provided. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a range of tactile qualities such as being mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These qualities combine to provide a gentle and light typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and offering a comfortable feel for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the HMX Cheese linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile and smooth typing experience, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a lighter tactile feel with muted sound characteristics. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so selecting between the two would depend on whether the user prioritizes sound, feel, or a combination of both. Additionally, it's important to take into consideration other factors such as the keyboard setup and personal taste to ensure the best typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you value a super smooth and light typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the Cheese switches may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile feedback with a silenced operation, the Lime switches are the way to go. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Whether you prioritize smoothness and sound quality or enjoy a gentle tactility with quiet operation, both options have something unique to offer. Make your decision based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
