Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and the Gateron Melodic are two popular choices that offer unique characteristics. The Lime switch is praised for its lightweight design, gentle tactility, and silenced operation, making it an ideal option for users who enjoy a feathery typing experience with a touch of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic stands out in the clicky switch category with advancements such as factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a smooth typing experience while retaining the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. While the Lime switch is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Melodic switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy'. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, tailored to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Outemu Lime and the Gateron Melodic in terms of housing materials lies in the top housing. The Lime features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound profile compared to the Lime's duller and rounder sound. Aesthetically, the Melodic's clear housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing aspect to the switch.
On the other hand, both the Outemu Lime and the Gateron Melodic share a nylon bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience across both switches, despite their differences in top housing material. Overall, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a consistent and familiar typing experience for users of both switches.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Lime and the Gateron Melodic may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While the Nylon bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience, the differing top housing materials create distinctive sound profiles. The Lime's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Melodic's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element. Ultimately, users may choose between the switches based on their preferred sound profile and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is clear that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Lime has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Melodic, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Melodic has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Lime requires 45 grams to bottom out. This means that the Melodic switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Lime offers a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Lime being lighter and the Melodic being heavier, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that the Lime has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Melodic's 4 mm travel distance. The 0.7 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Lime may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Melodic provides a more substantial keypress for those who prefer a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that the Lime offers a muted and neutral sound, making it suitable for various environments where noise might be a concern. On the other hand, the Melodic provides a resonant and crunchy sound, offering a more immersive and tactile auditory experience. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Lime being quieter and more neutral, while the Melodic is more vibrant and distinctive in its sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Lime switch is known for its mild, feathery, subtle, and polished qualities, providing a gentle typing experience, reduced finger fatigue, and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. Both switches provide unique tactile sensations, with the Lime focusing on lightness and comfort, while the Melodic emphasizes smoothness and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lime and Gateron Melodic switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lime is ideal for those seeking a quieter, lighter typing experience with a touch of tactility, while the Melodic caters to users looking for a more vibrant and immersive auditory and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches offer high-quality performance and can provide satisfying results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Lime tactile switches and the Gateron Melodic clicky switches, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a lightweight switch with an approachable tactility and a muted sound profile, the Lime switches would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the classic clicky sound with smoothness and a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile, the Melodic switches would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a feathery typing experience with a subtle sound or a crunchy, invigorating typing sensation. Choose wisely based on your typing preferences to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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