Outemu Lime vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique advantages depending on personal preference. The Lime switch is praised for its lightweight feel, approachable tactility, and silence, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a feathery typing experience with just a touch of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red switch maintains the classic characteristics of the MX Red but operates quietly, providing a satisfying typing experience with a significantly reduced sound profile, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches are both made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound output, benefiting from the acoustic properties of nylon in creating a more satisfying typing sound.
However, where the two switches may differ is in how the housing materials are utilized in the design of the switches. While both the Lime and the MX Silent Red have nylon top and bottom housings, the specific construction and arrangement of these components may vary. The qualities of the housing material are distributed differently in each switch, with the bottom housing having a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This difference in housing design could potentially result in a slight variation in typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, both the Outemu Lime and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile and typing experience, thanks to their nylon housing materials. The use of nylon in switch housings provides a softer and more absorbent material that enhances the sound output, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. While there may be subtle differences in how the housing materials are utilized in each switch's design, both switches ultimately deliver a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the Lime is lighter in both aspects. The Outemu Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Cherry MX Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Lime switch make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red's slightly heavier actuation force may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the Lime has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the 3.7 mm travel distance of the MX Silent Red. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Lime being on the shallower end and the MX Silent Red being slightly longer. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lime, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the MX Silent Red. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This can be beneficial in quieter environments or for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch also boasts a muted sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. Additionally, the MX Silent Red offers a low-pitched sound, which adds a deeper and more satisfying tone to each keystroke. Overall, both switches provide a quieter typing experience, making them suitable for noise-sensitive environments.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue and makes extended typing sessions more comfortable. The switch also features a subtle typing feel and a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is described as textured, meaning it may have noticeable friction when pressed. This textured feel can provide a different tactile experience compared to the smoother Outemu Lime switch. However, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their respective characteristics.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lime switch provides a feathery light typing experience with a muted sound profile, ideal for tactile fans seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red switch offers a slightly heftier feel with a low-pitched sound and textured feel, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a different tactile sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but both options ensure a satisfying and comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter key press with gentle tactility and a quiet sound profile, the Outemu Lime switch may be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you value a slightly heftier feel with a silent operation, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch would be a suitable choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal typing style and sound preference.
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