Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Outemu Lime and Outemu Silent Yellow Jade mechanical keyboard switches, both are tactile switches that cater to different preferences. The Lime switch stands out for its lightweight feel, approachable tactility, and silent operation, making it ideal for those who enjoy a feather-light typing experience with a touch of tactility. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade switch offers a quiet typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, thanks to its unique translucent jade yellow housing and punchy tactile bump. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their typing preferences. 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
50g
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
3.30 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
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
Both the Outemu Lime and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material. This shared material means that both switches will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's softer properties allow it to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that many keyboard enthusiasts find appealing. The similarities in housing material suggest that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel from both switches.
While the housing material may be the same for the Outemu Lime and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, the key difference lies in the switch type itself. The Outemu Lime is a tactile switch, which means it has a noticeable bump in the key travel that provides tactile feedback to users. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade is a silent switch, designed to minimize noise during typing with its dampened keypress. This difference in switch type will result in a distinct typing experience for users, despite the shared nylon housing material.
In terms of sound production, the bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even though both the Outemu Lime and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches use nylon for their top and bottom housings, the tactile nature of the Lime switch may result in a slightly different typing sound experience compared to the quiet operation of the Silent Yellow Jade switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and sound during typing.
Weight
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch. The Lime requires 35 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Silent Yellow Jade needs 50 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy option. The lighter actuation force of the Lime may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier force of the Silent Yellow Jade may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom will be exactly the same. This results in a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is used. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either the Outemu Lime or the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade 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 Silent Yellow Jade 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 switch offers a neutral and muted sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch provides a quiet and satisfying "thocky" sound, ideal for those looking for a subtle yet tactile typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Lime being more subdued and the Silent Yellow Jade offering a punchier sound.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime switch provides a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch is not specified, but as a silent tactile switch, it likely offers a similar tactile experience to the Lime but with a different sound profile. Both switches offer characteristics that appeal to tactile typing enthusiasts, with the Lime being known for its lightweight and approachable tactility, and the Silent Yellow Jade providing a quiet yet tactile typing experience.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, it is evident that each switch offers a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences. The Lime is favored for its lightweight feel and neutral, muted sound, making it suitable for a wide range of users, while the Silent Yellow Jade excels in providing a quiet and tactile typing experience with a punchy sound profile. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel, both switches have their own strengths and can deliver satisfying results for anyone looking for a tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, you should consider your preference for feel and sound. If you prefer a light, feathery typing experience with a touch of tactility and a more muted sound profile, the Outemu Lime switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a quiet, "thocky" sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch would be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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