Outemu Lime vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to the desirable typing experience each switch can provide. The Outemu Lime switches stand out as a tactile option, known for their lightweight design and subtle tactility, making them ideal for typists who prefer a feathery light touch with a hint of feedback. This switch is particularly appealing for those who enjoy a muted sound profile while still craving a tactile response. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches offer a linear experience characterized by impressive smoothness and a neutral sound signature, catering to gamers and typists who prioritize fluid keystrokes without the distraction of tactile bumps. While both switches provide unique benefits—such as the Lime's approachable tactility for light typists and the Orange Sea's silky feel for uninterrupted typing—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the Haimu Orange Sea, a distinct contrast emerges in the composition of their top housings. The Lime utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for its softer texture that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This characteristic allows nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Orange Sea employs polycarbonate for its top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, making it a more suitable option for users who prefer a crisp typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetics of the switch, particularly when RGB lighting is factored in.
While the top housings of these two switches are different, both switches share the same material for their bottom housings – nylon. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both the Lime and Orange Sea offer a deeper and fuller sound profile when pressed. This consistency in material across the bottom housing means that the bottom-out experience remains similar for both switches. As a result, despite the distinction between top housing types, both switches will provide a satisfying tactile feedback and auditory sensation at the point of actuation thanks to the nylon material’s sound-absorbing qualities.
The overall performance of each switch is ultimately influenced by the interaction between its top and bottom housings. For the Lime, the combination of a nylon top with a nylon bottom illustrates a uniform sound profile that emphasizes warmth and depth. Conversely, the Orange Sea, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, showcases a hybrid sound experience where the clarity of the top housing accentuates the rounded characteristics of the nylon bottom. Thus, while the material differences in the top housings create diverse auditory profiles, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches retain some similarities in their overall performance, particularly in terms of tactile feedback and deeper sound characteristics at the point of actuation.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces while their bottom out forces remain the same. The Lime switch has an actuation force of 35 grams, making it the lighter option, whereas the Orange Sea requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 37 grams. Both switches share a bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating that regardless of actuation weight, users will experience the same resistance when fully pressed down. For those who prefer a lighter touch for smoother and longer typing or gaming sessions, the Outemu Lime is a more suitable choice. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea, with its heavier actuation force, caters to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, the Lime switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Orange Sea switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Lime switch is the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel ideal for gamers who prefer quick key presses. In contrast, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Orange Sea switch offers a more substantial depth, which some users may find more satisfying but potentially less rapid in response. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference, as the Lime will deliver quicker responses while the Orange Sea will provide a deeper, more traditional typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40, whereas the Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79.
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 it comes to sound, the Outemu Lime switch stands out with a neutral sound profile that balances well with its muted characteristics. This makes it suitable for various environments, whether you're typing at home or in an office where quiet is preferred. The Lime switches generate a softer and quieter sound than more traditional mechanical switches, allowing for discreet typing sessions without disturbing those around you. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switch does not have a clearly defined sound profile provided, but it is known for its impeccably smooth operation, which typically suggests a neutral sound signature as well. Thus, while the Lime's muted quality is explicitly noted, the Orange Sea's acoustics may also lean towards a more subdued nature, making them potentially comparable in sound volume.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime switch excels with a combination of mild tactility and a feathery touch. This switch is designed to be exceptionally light, resulting in reduced finger fatigue during extended use, which is beneficial for both gaming and typing tasks. The slight tactile bump is approachable, ensuring a comfortable experience for users new to mechanical keyboards. The Lime switches also offer a polished feel, indicating smooth key travel and minimal friction. The Haimu Orange Sea switch, on the other hand, is highlighted for its smooth typing experience but does not specify any tactile characteristics. However, if the Orange Sea emphasizes smoothness, this could provide a premium and satisfying feel, although it may lack the tactile feedback that some users may appreciate.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Lime and Haimu Orange Sea switches provide unique qualities that could appeal to a variety of users. While the Lime excels in producing a light, muted sound with a gentle tactile feel, the Orange Sea promises an impeccably smooth action without explicit details on sound or tactile feedback. If you prefer a tactile typing experience that is quiet and light, the Lime may be your best choice. Conversely, if you lean towards a smooth and fluid motion with potentially similar sound qualities, the Orange Sea could be ideal. Both switches are suitable for extended typing sessions, making them good options for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you intend to use your keyboard. If you're someone who enjoys a gentle typing experience and values a blend of light actuation force with subtle tactile feedback, then the Lime is an excellent option. It's particularly suited for those who type for extended periods, such as students or professionals, since its feathery light feel minimizes finger fatigue and allows for comfortable, quiet typing in shared spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, linear feel without any tactile bump, the Haimu Orange Sea might be a better fit for you. This switch provides an impeccably smooth keypress, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or typing where uninterrupted keystrokes are essential. Given that both switches have a bottom-out force of 45 grams and a relatively neutral sound signature, your decision should hinge on whether you appreciate the tactile feedback and lightness of the Lime or if you lean towards the smoother sensation of the Orange Sea.
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