Outemu Lime (V3) vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and the HMX Lotus stand out as excellent options for different preferences. The Outemu Lime is a tactile switch that offers a unique typing experience with its lightweight design, subtle tactility, and silenced operation. Ideal for those who enjoy a feathery light touch while typing, the Lime switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus is a linear switch known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound. Providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke, the Lotus switch offers a delightful typing experience. While the Lime switch appeals to tactile fans looking for a light touch, the Lotus switch is perfect for those who prefer a linear and bouncy 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
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Outemu Lime and the HMX Lotus lies in their stem materials. The Lime features a POM stem that is known for its smooth and tactile keystrokes, while the Lotus boasts a more robust stem material made from polycarbonate. This distinction results in a slightly different typing experience, with the Lime offering a softer and quieter feel compared to the Lotus, which provides a more solid and satisfying keystroke feedback.
In terms of overall sound profile, both switches with their nylon top and bottom housings create a similar deep and round sound due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. The use of nylon in the construction of both switches also contributes to their overall durability and longevity, making them a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. However, the Outemu Lime may have a slightly more muted sound compared to the HMX Lotus due to the differences in stem materials, resulting in a more subtle and refined typing experience.
While both the Outemu Lime and the HMX Lotus share similar housing materials, their stem differences play a significant role in determining their overall performance. The POM stem in the Lime provides a smoother and softer keystroke, ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate stem of the Lotus offers a more robust and tactile feel, perfect for users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience each individual user is looking for.
Weight
The Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch both offer a relatively light actuation force and bottom out force compared to other switches on the market. The Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lotus has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, making them suitable for extended typing sessions. However, the Lime switch is slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Lotus switch, which may cater more to users who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Lime has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Lotus. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Lotus with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 Outemu Lime tactile switch is known for its neutral and muted sound profile, making it suitable for various environments such as home or work settings. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch lacks specific descriptions for sound but is noted to provide a bright and resonant sound. The choice of keycaps and keyboard board can also influence the overall sound produced by these switches.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience that is approachable to most users. The light actuation force of the Lime switch reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Lotus linear switch does not have specific feel descriptors mentioned, but given its medium weight and bouncy feeling, it may provide a different tactile experience compared to the Lime switch.
Overall, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is praised for its unique lightweight and silenced design, perfect for tactile enthusiasts seeking a gentle typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a bouncy feeling with a medium weight that can make keystrokes enjoyable. If sound and feel are critical factors for the newcomer in choosing between these two switches, they can expect different characteristics in both, ultimately leading to distinct typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you are looking for a lightweight switch with a touch of tactility and a silent typing experience, then the Lime switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bouncy feel and a bright, resonant sound, then the Lotus switch would be more suitable. Keep in mind the actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel of each switch when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider what factors matter most to you in a switch when making your choice.
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