Outemu Lime vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are various options available, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Two popular switches worth comparing and contrasting are the Outemu Lime, known for its light tactility and silent operation, and the SP-Star Meteor White, known for its gentle linear feel and soft sound profile. The Lime switches offer an incredibly lightweight typing experience with a touch of tactile feedback, making them a great choice for those who prefer a feathery light typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White switches provide an easy-to-press linear feel, accompanied by a gentle and subtle pitter-patter sound profile. Both switches fall under the 'Neutral' and 'Mild' categories, with the Lime switches being categorized as 'Muted', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', while the Meteor White switches are described as 'Thocky' and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Lime and the SP-Star Meteor White both utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound due to its relatively softer and more flexible nature compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches create a duller and rounder sound when pressed. Therefore, in terms of sound profile, the Lime and the Meteor White yield similar results.
However, there may be differences when it comes to the individual impacts of the top and bottom housings of these switches. In switches where the top and bottom housings are distinct, the qualities of each housing material will be divided. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing will have a more pronounced effect on the sound produced. Therefore, while both switches share the same nylon material for their housings, the specific housing design may lead to variations in tactile feedback and auditory experience.
Overall, the use of nylon as the housing material for both the Outemu Lime and the SP-Star Meteor White contributes to a similar sound profile characterized by deep and full tones. The softer and more absorbent nature of nylon compared to harder plastics allows for a rounder and less harsh sound when typing. However, potential discrepancies may arise between the switches due to the distribution of the housing materials. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel more, while the top housing plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite these nuances, the overall housing material contributes to a comparable typing experience between the Lime and the Meteor White.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Lime has a relatively light actuation force of 35 grams, making it easy to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. In contrast, the Meteor White's actuation force is unavailable, so it is difficult to compare directly. However, the Lime's bottom out force of 45 grams suggests that it requires slightly more force to fully press the keys compared to its actuation force. On the other hand, the Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Lime's bottom out force. While both switches offer a lighter typing experience, the Lime is lighter overall due to its lower bottom out force. However, it's important to note that without an exact figure for the Meteor White's actuation force, it is unclear how the two switches truly compare in terms of key triggering.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is clear that the Lime has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Meteor White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lime falls into the category of a shorter travel distance, which is often preferred by gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the Meteor White offers a more substantial depth due to its longer travel distance. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference - those seeking a more responsive feel would opt for the Lime with its shorter travel distance, while others who prefer a deeper keystroke experience may lean towards the Meteor White. However, it is important to note that both switches provide a comfortable and satisfactory typing experience, as their travel distances are within the optimal range for ergonomic use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
The Outemu Lime 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 switch is known for being neutral and muted. This means that it has a moderate sound profile that is softer and quieter compared to regular or clacky switches. The Lime switch is great for those who prefer a more subtle and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White switch is also described as neutral but has a thocky sound profile. This means that when pressed, it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." Overall, both switches provide a soft sound profile, but the Lime switch offers a more silent and subdued sound, while the Meteor White switch provides a deeper and more satisfying thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime switch offers a range of qualities. It is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. A mild switch provides a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable for most users. The feathery attribute means that the Lime switch is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The subtle characteristic indicates a gentle resistance, which is not as light as a feather but still maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the Lime switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the SP-Star Meteor White switch is also described as mild and polished. It offers a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics and a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches provide a comfortable and smooth typing feel, making them suitable for various typing needs.
Considering the available information, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch have some similarities and differences in terms of sound and feel. They have a similar neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most purposes. However, the Lime switch is muted, offering a softer and quieter sound compared to the Meteor White switch's thocky sound. In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and comfortable feel for most users. The Lime switch is additionally feathery and subtle, making it exceptionally light to press with reduced strain on the fingers and suitable for shared spaces. While the Meteor White switch does not have these specific attributes mentioned, it still offers a mild and polished typing experience. Therefore, if you are looking for a light and quiet typing experience, the Lime switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and more satisfying sound, the Meteor White switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
In closing, to choose between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider your personal preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility, along with a lighter bottom out force, the Lime switch is the way to go. Its unique lightweight nature, approachable tactility, and silenced feature make it perfect for tactile fans seeking a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a subdued and easy-to-push switch with a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile, the Meteor White is a great option. With a medium-light bottom out force, it offers a soft typing feel and a sound profile that is both soft and thocky. Ultimately, your choice should be based on the qualities that align with your needs and preferences, whether it be lightness, tactility, or sound profile.
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