Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Lime and the Bsun Olive, both tactile switches. The Lime switches are praised for their lightweight feel, subtle tactility, and muted sound thanks to their silencing technology, making them a great choice for those who prefer a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switches stand out for their all-POM housings that produce a deep, resonant sound, along with a medium weight and pronounced tactile feedback for a more invigorating typing experience. 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
65g
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
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Lime and the Bsun Olive both use different housing materials for their top and bottom parts. The Lime features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. In comparison, the Olive utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a unique, deeper, and relatively more muted sound profile. This difference in top housing material leads to distinct sound characteristics between the two switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Outemu Lime and the Bsun Olive also differ in materials used. The Lime's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its top housing, while the Olive's POM bottom housing contributes to a pleasing and unique deeper sound that is relatively more muted. Both bottom housing materials play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches, adding to the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, although the Outemu Lime and the Bsun Olive have different housing materials for both the top and bottom parts, they share some similarities in sound characteristics. The nylon and POM materials used in their housing create deeper and fuller sound profiles, with the former producing a duller and rounder sound while the latter offers a more muted tone. Despite these differences, both switches provide a unique typing experience with their distinct sound profiles, influenced by their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it is evident that the Lime is lighter in both aspects. The Lime requires a gentle actuation force of 35 grams and has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Olive switch is heavier, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for typing. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the Lime is better suited for those who value a lighter touch, while the Olive is more suitable for individuals who prefer a heavier, more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers for their quicker response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference; the Lime switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance for those seeking a more responsive experience, while the Olive switch provides a slightly deeper key press for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, so users can expect comparable results in terms of key feel and overall experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 tactile switch is known for its neutral and muted sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is characterized by a resonant and deep sound due to its all-POM housing. This difference in sound may appeal to different preferences, with the Lime providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the more distinct sound of the Olive.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience, with light actuation force and subtle tactile feedback. This results in a comfortable and gentle typing feel that is suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switch provides an accented and invigorating tactile feedback with a sharp and snappy keypress feel. The pronounced tactile bump and responsive nature of the Olive switch may cater to users who prefer a more intense typing experience.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Outemu Lime and Bsun Olive tactile switches offer contrasting typing experiences. The Lime switch provides a softer and light typing experience with a neutral sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a quieter and gentler feel. On the other hand, the Olive switch delivers a more pronounced tactile feedback with a resonant sound, catering to users who enjoy a sharper and more distinct typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both options offering unique qualities that can enhance the overall keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a lightweight switch with a gentle typing experience and a muted sound, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a pronounced tactile feedback and a resonant, deep sound, the Bsun Olive tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. Whether you prioritize a feathery light typing experience or a sharp, invigorating tactile feedback, both the Lime and Olive switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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