Outemu Lime vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and the KTT Phalaenopsis both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lime switches are renowned for their lightweight nature, approachable tactility, and silent operation. Perfect for tactile enthusiasts, these switches provide a feathery light typing experience with just a hint of tactility. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switches boast beautiful translucent aesthetics and a light actuation force of 37g, ensuring effortless typing and minimized finger fatigue even during prolonged sessions. With a satisfying and discernible tactile bump of 50g, each keystroke becomes a delightful experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best choice based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the KTT Phalaenopsis differ significantly. The Lime utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nylon plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis's translucent polycarbonate top housing is especially advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting.
While the top and bottom housings of the Lime and Phalaenopsis have contrasting qualities, they share some similarities. Both nylon and polycarbonate are considered classic switch housing materials. Typing on switches with either material elicits a more enhanced and dynamic sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic housings. Additionally, both materials affect the sound and feel of the switch differently. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing, regardless of the material, influences the sound when the key is released.
In terms of aesthetics, the Phalaenopsis's clear polycarbonate housing sets it apart. Its translucency allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. The Lime, with its nylon housing, lacks this feature. However, both switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their respective housing materials. The Lime provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon housing, while the Phalaenopsis delivers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired sound and aesthetic effects.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. Both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Outemu Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the KTT Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. While the Lime requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke, the Phalaenopsis provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force. Overall, both switches offer a lighter feel, allowing for longer typing sessions, but the Phalaenopsis provides a slightly heavier push for users who desire a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we find that the Lime has a travel distance of 3.3 mm while the Phalaenopsis has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the 4 mm travel distance of the Phalaenopsis is more typical, while the Lime's 3.3 mm is considered a shorter travel distance. This shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Lime would be the better choice. However, it's important to note that some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Lime to feel too abrupt. In such cases, the Phalaenopsis, with its longer travel distance, would provide a deeper and more satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Outemu Lime 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Lime switches are known for their neutral and muted sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate level of sound with a softer and quieter tone compared to regular mechanical switches. The Phalaenopsis switches, on the other hand, have a bassy and thocky sound. This means that they offer a deeper, richer, and more satisfying sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime switches provide a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. They offer a more gentle and approachable typing experience with their lightweight and tactile nature. The feathery light actuation force reduces finger fatigue and makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions. These switches also have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches are described as stepped switches. This means that they offer a more mild tactile experience compared to hypertactile switches. Stepped switches have two stages of feeling, where you can sense some pre-travel or post-travel along with the tactile bump.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lime switches are known for their lightweight and approachable tactility, as well as their silenced sound profile. They provide a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility, making them perfect for tactile fans. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches have a light actuation force that minimizes finger fatigue and offer a satisfying tactile bump. They provide effortless typing with a delightful and discernible tactile experience. When it comes to sound, the Lime switches have a neutral and muted profile, while the Phalaenopsis switches have a bassy and thocky profile. The overall feel and sound of these switches will also depend on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities and a delightful typing experience, but with different sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a lightweight and tactile switch with a touch of tactility, the Outemu Lime switches are an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches offer a feathery light typing experience that is perfect for tactile fans. Additionally, the Lime switches are silenced, making them a great option for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, if you prioritize effortless typing and minimal finger fatigue, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches are the way to go. With a bottom out force of 50 grams and a light actuation force of 37 grams, these switches provide a satisfying tactile bump while minimizing strain on your fingers. The Phalaenopsis switches also offer a delightful typing experience with their beautiful translucent design. In terms of sound, the Lime switches have a neutral and muted sound profile, making them suitable for any environment. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switches deliver a bassy and thocky sound, adding depth and richness to your typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Lime switches offer a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis switches are stepped, providing a unique mild tactile feel. Ultimately, your choice between the Outemu Lime and KTT Phalaenopsis switches depends on your preference for a silent and lightweight typing experience with a touch of tactility, or effortless typing and minimal finger fatigue.
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