Gateron Glory Red vs. Outemu Lime

Overview

When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and the Outemu Lime present two distinct yet appealing options, each catering to different typing preferences. The Gateron Glory Red switches are celebrated for their smooth keystrokes and satisfying travel distance, making them ideal for users who prioritize a light touch and prefer a linear experience that minimizes tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switches offer a unique combination of a lightweight feel and subtle tactility, creating a typing experience that is both gentle and engaging. This makes them particularly well-suited for those who enjoy the satisfaction of tactile feedback without the harsher bump often found in other switches. While the Glory Red may appeal to gamers seeking quick and fluid keystrokes, the Lime provides a more nuanced typing experience for writers and typists who appreciate a gentle, yet noticeable, tactile response. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Red Linear

Outemu Lime Tactile

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$3.40 per 10

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Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and the Outemu Lime switches, it becomes clear that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is significant, as nylon is recognized in the keyboard enthusiast community for its sound profile and durability. The nylon composition in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing, owing to its softer texture compared to other plastics. Consequently, both switches will produce similar acoustic characteristics, resonating with a muted and rounded sound, enhancing the tactile experience across the board.

The similarity extends beyond just the top housing; both switches sport nylon bottom housings as well. This uniformity in material ensures that the typing experience remains consistent from the moment a key is pressed down, through to the bottom-out sound, which is heavily influenced by the bottom housing. With nylon's inherent qualities, both switches absorb sound effectively, resulting in less noise pollution while typing, whether one is engaged in gaming or intense programming sessions. Thus, the overall sound profile created by both the Gateron Glory Red and Outemu Lime is comparable, and users can expect a similar auditory environment regardless of their choice.

One can conclude that the choice of nylon in both the top and bottom housings creates a unified experience across the Gateron Glory Red and Outemu Lime switches. While other switches may feature varied materials that can affect the sound and feel differently, these two share a consistent visual aesthetic and auditory performance due to the identical housing materials. Consequently, typing on either switch is likely to yield comparable results, with a richer sound profile and enhanced tactile feedback that stems from the shared properties of nylon. In this way, enthusiasts can confidently choose either switch without sacrificing the quality of their experience.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces that cater to varying typing preferences. The Glory Red requires a force of 45 grams to actuate, while the Lime has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams. This means that users of the Lime switch will find it easier to type for extended periods, making it a suitable choice for those who need a less strenuous option, like in a work or gaming scenario. On the other hand, the Glory Red's higher actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. The bottom out force for the Glory Red is unspecified, but the Lime has a bottom out force of 45 grams; typically, this provides a tactile feedback at the end of a keystroke, enhancing the user's experience. Thus, while the Lime is overall the lighter switch, the Glory Red offers a heavier actuation experience. If the bottom out force of the Glory Red were known, it would provide additional insights into their comparative feel, but as it stands, the difference in actuation force already highlights a disparity in user experience between these two switches.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, the Glory Red has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lime measures slightly shorter at 3.3 mm. This means that the Glory Red offers a bit more resistance and feels more substantial with each keypress, which could appeal to users who prefer a deeper key travel for a more pronounced tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Lime, with its shorter travel distance, may be favored by gamers who seek quicker response times and a more agile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on personal preference: if you desire a more responsive feel, the Lime would be the better option, whereas if you prefer a more hearty depth and resistance under your fingers, the Glory Red is the switch to consider.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch is often perceived as smooth and relatively quiet, producing a sound profile that is less intrusive than many clicky counterparts, which makes it suitable for office environments where noise may be a concern. It provides a pleasant auditory experience without drawing too much attention, appealing to those who prefer a discreet typing sound. In contrast, the Outemu Lime tactile switch presents a more muted tonal quality due to its silenced design. This switch exhibits a neutral sound profile that caters to both beginners and advanced users, allowing for a gentle acoustic presence. The muted attributes diminish the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, ideal for shared spaces or quiet environments.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Glory Red offers a smooth keystroke that is free of any tactile bump, allowing for uninterrupted travel which many typists appreciate for its fluidity. Users can expect an enjoyable typing journey that emphasizes consistency without the distraction of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch provides a unique experience with a light actuation force and an approachable tactility. The Lime's feathery and subtle characteristics make it exceptionally comfortable for extended typing sessions, as it requires minimal effort to activate. This light touch reduces finger fatigue, appealing to users seeking a gentle yet responsive typing feel. Additionally, its polished nature ensures a refined and smooth finish, contributing to an overall pleasurable typing sensation.

Both switches cater to different preferences but are designed to enhance the typing experience in their respective ways. The Gateron Glory Red linear switch appeals to those who enjoy a smooth, noise-conscious option without tactile feedback, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch is perfect for users desiring a light touch combined with subtle feedback. Ultimately, selecting between them comes down to individual typing style and environment; however, both switches promise comfort and enjoyable experiences during prolonged use.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch should depend on your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless keystroke, with a very light actuation feel that minimizes finger fatigue over extended usage, then the Glory Red switch is an excellent option. It’s particularly suited for users who enjoy a fluid typing experience, making it ideal for gamers or typists who need speed and precision without the tactile interruption of feedback. On the other hand, if you're a tactile switch enthusiast looking for a subtle yet satisfying typing experience, the Outemu Lime switch would be more appropriate. With its light actuation force and muted sound profile, it lends itself well to shared spaces like offices or study areas while still providing a gentle tactile bump that can enhance your typing comfort. Thus, your choice should ultimately align with whether you favor a smooth, linear feel or a tactile sensation in your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Lime Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more