TTC Flame Red vs. Outemu Lime

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options for enthusiasts to consider are the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Lime. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, they differ in their key attributes. The Flame Red switches are renowned for their stunning light diffuser, making them an excellent choice for those who desire a backlit, RGB keyboard. When typing on these linear switches, users will notice a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, providing a tactile feedback that many find satisfying. On the other hand, the Lime switches offer a unique combination of lightweight construction, approachable tactility, and silenced operation. This makes them ideal for tactile fans who seek a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility. While these general pointers can help you determine which switch may suit your preferences, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Flame Red Linear

Outemu Lime Tactile

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$3.40 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials for both the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Lime switches are made of nylon, making them similar in terms of material composition. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, users can expect similar sound characteristics and typing experiences when using both switches.

However, it's worth noting that the top and bottom housings of the switches may differ. The qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom, affecting different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing, whether in the Flame Red or the Lime, will contribute to the tactile feedback and perceived resistance when pressing the key.

Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing the key, known as the upstroke sound. Since both the Flame Red and Lime switches have nylon top housing, users can expect a similar performance in terms of the sound produced when letting go of a key. The softer nature of nylon plastic aids in absorbing sound and creating a deeper and fuller upstroke sound, contributing to an overall satisfying typing experience.

In conclusion, while the TTC Flame Red and the Outemu Lime switches use the same nylon material for their top and bottom housings, their specific qualities may differ. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the upstroke sound. However, due to the similar material composition, users can anticipate comparable typing experiences with both switches, enjoying the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly heavier than the Lime's 35 grams. This means that a slightly stronger push is required to trigger a keystroke with the Flame Red compared to the Lime. In terms of bottom out force, the Flame Red is also slightly heavier at 54 grams compared to the Lime's 45 grams. This indicates that pressing all the way down on the Flame Red switch will require a slightly greater force than the Lime switch.

Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Lime switch due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter weight can allow for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions without causing as much fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Flame Red switch. The slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more satisfying tactile response for these users.

While the Flame Red and Lime switches have different actuation and bottom out forces, both fall within the medium-light to light range. This means that regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect a relatively similar keystroke experience in terms of force required. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distances of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch differ by 0.7 mm. The Flame Red has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Lime has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Flame Red's 4.0 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, providing a more typical keypress experience. On the other hand, the Lime's shorter 3.3 mm travel distance caters to gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing the Flame Red will give you a deeper and more substantial keypress, while opting for the Lime will result in a shallower and quicker keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Flame Red offering a more traditional and hearty feel, and the Lime providing a more responsive and snappy experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Flame Red is best known for its dazzling light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who want a backlit, RGB keyboard. When typing on these switches, you will experience a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. In terms of sound, the Flame Red is described as having a neutral sound profile, which makes it suitable for most intents and purposes.

On the other hand, the Lime switches are incredibly unique. They are lightweight, have an approachable tactility, and are silenced. This makes them perfect for tactile fans who want a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. In terms of sound, the Lime switches are also described as having a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches.

In terms of feel, both the Flame Red and the Lime switches offer a gentle typing experience. They both fall into the mild category, providing a safe middle-ground zone for most users. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, while both switches have their own unique qualities, they share some similarities. Both have a neutral sound profile and fall into the mild category in terms of feel. Additionally, they both have a polished finish, ensuring a sleek and comfortable typing experience. Whether you choose the Flame Red for its dazzling visuals or the Lime for its lightweight and silenced tactility, you can expect similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are someone who prioritizes visual appeal and enjoys a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches are perfect for those who desire a backlit, RGB keyboard and appreciate a moderate actuation force. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight switch with just a touch of tactility and a feathery light typing experience, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be the better option. These switches are ideal for tactile fans who want a gentle typing experience, minimal noise, and reduced finger fatigue. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a polished finish, ensuring a sleek typing experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Lime Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more