Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and Outemu Green offer distinctly different typing experiences. The Lime switch is a tactile switch that is best known for its lightweight design, approachable tactility, and silenced operation. Perfect for tactile enthusiasts looking for a feathery light typing experience with a subtle touch of tactility, the Lime switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch is a clicky switch that doesn't have any specific standout features listed. While the Lime switch offers a more subdued typing experience, the Green switch is likely to provide more audible feedback with its clicky mechanism. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Lime and Outemu Green switches, one can see significant differences in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Lime switch features a nylon top housing, which absorbs sound and creates a deeper, fuller sound profile. This contrasts with the Green switch, which utilizes a polycarbonate top housing to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The choice between these two materials can greatly affect the overall typing experience, with nylon offering a more subdued and rounded sound compared to the clear and resonant tones of polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Lime and Green switches utilize a nylon material, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound effectively, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. While the top housing plays a significant role in determining the key release sound, the bottom housing is equally important in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel of each keystroke. This similarity in bottom housing material guarantees a consistent typing experience in terms of sound for both the Outemu Lime and Green switches.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Lime and Green switches comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile and typing experience. The use of different top housing materials - nylon for the Lime and polycarbonate for the Green - results in distinct sound profiles, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the sharper and crisper tones of polycarbonate. However, with both switches utilizing a nylon bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound. Considerations such as sound preferences, aesthetics, and typing feel should be taken into account when choosing between these two housing materials for a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Lime has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Green's heavier 65 grams. Similarly, the Lime has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Green has a bottom out force of 80 grams, making the Green switch require a more significant force to fully press down. This means that the Lime switch would provide a lighter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more effortless press, while the Green switch would be better suited for users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Outemu Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Green switch have a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lime switch. The Lime switch falls within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Green switch offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feeling when typing. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, so the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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 Green 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 muted and neutral sound profile, making it a suitable option for those looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, but it is likely to produce a louder and more pronounced click due to its clicky nature. Ultimately, the sound of both switches will also be influenced by factors such as keycaps and keyboard build.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and light touch that reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable typing session for extended periods. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Green clicky switch is unspecified, but it is expected to deliver a more tactile and clicky typing experience, which may not be as gentle or light as the Lime switch. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of feel, with the Lime switch focusing on a lighter touch and the Green switch providing a more pronounced tactile and auditory feedback.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lime switch is praised for its muted sound and feathery feel, perfect for those seeking a gentle and quiet typing experience, while the Green switch is likely to provide a louder and more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with the Lime switch offering a softer touch and the Green switch catering to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile and clicky typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, based on your preferences and needs, you should choose the Outemu Lime tactile switch if you desire a lightweight, silenced, and lightly tactile typing experience that is ideal for prolonged typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, you should opt for the Outemu Green clicky switch if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a pronounced clicky sound. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your personal typing style and the environment in which you'll be using your mechanical keyboard. Choose wisely based on what suits you best.
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