Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and Dareu Master offer distinct experiences for users. The Outemu Lime is a tactile switch that stands out for its lightweight design, approachable tactility, and silenced operation. Ideal for tactile enthusiasts looking for a feathery typing feel with a touch of tactility, the Lime switch is categorized as 'neutral', 'mild', 'muted', 'feathery', 'subtle', 'polished. On the other hand, the Dareu Master is a linear switch made of POM that offers a medium weight for users, delivering a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness. Categorized as 'clacky', 'mild', 'polished', the Master switch provides a different typing experience compared to the Lime. While these general pointers can help you understand the key differences between the two switches, 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Lime and the Dareu Master both have unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Lime's nylon top housing and the Master's POM top housing both provide a deeper sound profile, with the nylon being softer and creating a duller, rounder sound compared to the POM which is more muted. However, where the nylon absorbs more sound, the POM creates a unique and pleasing sound experience that sets it apart from the Lime.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Lime's nylon bottom housing and the Master's POM bottom housing offer a similar deep sound profile with a relatively muted tone. The softer nylon in the Lime creates a fuller sound when typing on the switches, while the POM in the Master also contributes to a deep and pleasing sound experience. This highlights the importance of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, showing how the material of the housing can impact the overall typing experience.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Outemu Lime and the Dareu Master, they both play a crucial role in the sound produced by the switches. The nylon and POM materials each bring their own unique qualities, with the nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound while the POM offers a more muted and pleasing sound profile. By understanding how these materials affect the sound and feel of the switches, enthusiasts can make informed decisions based on their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that the Lime has a lighter touch overall. The Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Master has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Lime. The bottom out force for the Master is unknown, which may mean that it requires less force to bottom out compared to the Lime. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Outemu Lime, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Dareu Master. However, if both switches have the same actuation force and bottom out force, users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for quick response times. However, the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable options for those who value speed and efficiency in their typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Lime switches offer a neutral sound profile that is muted, making them a great choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switches provide a clacky sound that is crisp and percussive. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities, with the Lime being more subdued and the Master being more sharp and snappy. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Outemu Lime and Dareu Master switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Lime switches are described as feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a light and smooth typing feel with reduced finger fatigue. Similarly, the Master switches are also mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience for extended use in gaming, school, or work settings.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Lime tactile switches and Dareu Master linear switches have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, they both offer a pleasant typing experience for users. The Lime switches are known for their lightweight feel and muted sound, making them perfect for tactile enthusiasts seeking a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Master switches provide a medium weight and clacky sound, offering a classic typing experience with exceptional smoothness. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the Lime and Master switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a lightweight typing experience with a touch of tactility and want a quieter sound profile, the Outemu Lime switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and smooth operation, the Dareu Master switch would suit your needs better. Additionally, if you prioritize a gentle typing experience with polished key travel, both switches offer a mild and polished feel. Overall, the Outemu Lime switch is great for those who value a light keypress with tactility, while the Dareu Master switch is perfect for users looking for a medium-weight linear switch with a clacky sound signature. It ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style when deciding between these two switches.
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