Outemu Lime (V3) vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and the HMX Macchiato offer distinctly different experiences tailored to various user preferences. The Outemu Lime is a tactile switch that stands out for its lightweight design and subtle tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for typists seeking a smooth yet responsive typing experience without overwhelming noise. Its muted characteristics lend themselves well to a serene workspace, appealing to those who favor a gentle touch. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato, a linear switch crafted by YG Studio, delivers a silky smooth typing sensation paired with a bright sound profile, catering to users who thrive on a more pronounced auditory feedback as they type. While the Lime shines in environments where quiet operation is paramount, the Macchiato’s lively sound can invigorate the typing experience for those who enjoy a bit more auditory engagement. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
42g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Lime and HMX Macchiato switches, it's noteworthy to recognize that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice means that users can expect a similar auditory and tactile experience from both switches. Nylon, known for its softer plastic properties, tends to absorb vibrations more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Consequently, when typing on either switch, users will notice a rounder sound when keys bottom out, which can contribute to a more pleasant overall experience.
The similarity in housing materials also extends to how these switches perform tactilely. Both the Lime and Macchiato benefit from nylon's unique qualities, which means the feel of each switch is inherently designed to maximize comfort and feedback during use. As the bottom housing of a switch generally impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, both models will share similar feedback characteristics, enhancing user satisfaction whether typing or gaming. The consistent use of nylon ensures that both the Lime and Macchiato will elicit comparable sensations and responses upon key presses, promoting ease of transition between the two for users who may encounter both switches.
However, while both switches share the same housing material, it's essential to consider that variations in other design aspects, like the switch's mechanism itself or spring tension, could influence overall performance. The top housing's sound is particularly pronounced during key releases, a characteristic that applies similarly to both the Lime and Macchiato. This harmonious material composition allows for a reliable typing experience, ensuring that users receive a comparable performance whether they choose the Lime or the Macchiato. Therefore, regardless of the slight differences that may exist in other components, the consistent use of nylon in their housings lays the foundation for a similarly enjoyable user experience.
Weight
The Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to distinct preferences among users. The Lime switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it well-suited for those who appreciate a softer touch during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Macchiato switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a more substantial push feel that some users prefer for a firmer typing experience. While both switches are classified as "light," the Lime is notably lighter than the Macchiato, which might influence a user's choice depending on their comfort and typing style. Ultimately, those who favor a lighter switch will benefit from the Outemu Lime, while those who appreciate a bit more resistance may lean towards the HMX Macchiato.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Macchiato linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference suggests that the Lime switch may offer quicker actuation and a more responsive feel, making it a suitable choice for gamers who prioritize fast response times. On the other hand, the Macchiato’s longer travel distance may provide a deeper, more satisfying keystroke for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In summary, the Lime switch is the shorter option, promoting rapid key presses, whereas the Macchiato, being the longer switch, caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced and deliberate key action.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato 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 provides a unique auditory experience characterized by a neutral and muted profile. This means that the sound produced is moderate, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office. Its muted nature minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, ensuring a softer typing experience that won't disturb those around you. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is designed with a bright sound profile, which indicates it offers a more pronounced auditory feedback that could be more engaging for users who enjoy a lively typing atmosphere. However, since specific descriptors of sound for the Macchiato are not provided, it’s essential to note that sound also heavily relies on factors like the keyboard's construction and keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the Lime stands out with its mild, feathery, and polished characteristics. This results in an incredibly gentle typing experience that is particularly conducive to long typing sessions, as it requires minimal exertion from the fingers, thereby reducing fatigue. The tactility is subtle yet satisfying, encouraging comfortable use for activities like gaming or extended work. The smoothness of the key travel offers a refined finish that further enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the specifics regarding the feel of the HMX Macchiato switch are unknown; however, it is designed to provide a silky smooth typing experience that suggests a fluidity similar to what users might expect from a well-lubed switch.
In summary, the Outemu Lime tactile switch caters to those who appreciate a light, muted, and comfortable typing experience, making it perfect for various environments and tasks. Its auditory presence is soft and manageable while the feel is notably gentle and refined. Meanwhile, the HMX Macchiato linear switch leans towards a brighter sound profile and promises a smooth action, which might appeal to those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. Without detailed descriptions for the Macchiato’s sound and feel, it remains challenging to draw direct comparisons. However, both switches, in their unique qualities, aim to enhance the typing experience, offering a choice between tactile softness and linear smoothness.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, your personal preferences and intended use will play crucial roles. If you favor a lightweight tactile experience and need a muted sound profile for environments like offices or shared spaces, the Outemu Lime is a fantastic choice. Its 45-gram bottom-out force and subtle tactility make it ideal for extended typing sessions, whether for work, study, or gaming, while its muted nature ensures you won't disrupt those around you. On the other hand, if you desire a silky smooth typing experience with a brighter sound profile, the HMX Macchiato, with a slightly heavier 50-gram bottom-out force, could be more appealing. This switch caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback without sacrificing smoothness. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing style and acoustic preferences, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience is both enjoyable and efficient.
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