Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lime, a tactile switch, with the Outemu Cold Plum, a linear switch, it becomes evident that each switch offers a distinct typing experience. The Lime switch stands out for its lightweight and silenced design, appealing to tactile fans who enjoy a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch delivers a thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke due to its fully nylon construction, making it a great choice for enthusiasts seeking a unique and enjoyable typing feel. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the Outemu Cold Plum are both made of nylon, which is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with this material. This characteristic of nylon housing contributes to a unique typing experience that appeals to enthusiasts looking for a specific sound profile in their keyboards.
Both the Lime and Cold Plum switches feature nylon top and bottom housings that work together to create a cohesive typing experience. The top housing of the switch affects the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed. This split in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that combines the qualities of both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a satisfying sound and tactile feedback for the user.
While the materials used in the housing of the Outemu Lime and Cold Plum switches are the same, their design and construction may vary slightly to accommodate different preferences in sound and feel. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile characteristic of nylon housing, but individual users may notice subtle differences in the typing experience based on how the top and bottom housings interact with each other. Ultimately, whether choosing the Lime or Cold Plum, users can expect a similar level of sound absorption and a rounder sound profile that sets these switches apart from others on the market.
Weight
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force, with the Lime having a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and the Cold Plum having a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lime make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for work or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Cold Plum provide a stronger push feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, selecting between the two switches is dependent on personal preference, with the Lime being better for lighter typing and the Cold Plum offering a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This results in a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is being used. Since both switches have identical travel distances, users can expect similar tactile feedback and key feel when using either switch. Overall, the travel distance of 3.3 mm for both switches offers a balanced typing experience for those who prefer either tactile or linear switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40, whereas the Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10.
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 neutral sound profile with a muted quality, making it suitable for a variety of environments and users. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile, which can provide a more distinctive typing experience for enthusiasts. Please keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is praised for its mild, feathery, subtle, and polished qualities, offering a light and comfortable typing experience that can reduce finger fatigue. The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, however, does not have specific descriptions available for its feel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lime switch provides a lightweight and muted sound profile, along with a gentle and polished typing feel that is comfortable for extended use. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch delivers a thocky sound profile, though specific information on its feel is not available. Depending on your preferences in sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, your choice should primarily depend on your preference for typing experience. If you value a lightweight, tactile typing experience with a silenced sound profile, the Outemu Lime switches would be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, thocky sound with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Cold Plum switches would better suit your preferences. Keep in mind the distinct characteristics of each switch when making your decision, such as the bottom out force, typing feel, and sound profile, to ensure you choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences and typing style. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to your personal preference in typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
