Outemu Lime vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Lime and the Kailh Plum. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but they have unique characteristics that set them apart. The Lime switches are known for their lightweight design, approachable tactility, and silence. These switches are perfect for tactile fans who prefer a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. On the other hand, the Plum switches are slightly heavier but still provide a tactile feel without a significant bump. This makes the Plum switches stand out as a unique option among other tactile switches. Additionally, the sound profile of the Plum switches is neutral and enjoyable. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the Kailh Plum switches have distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the Lime utilizes nylon for its top housing, while the Plum features a polycarbonate top housing.
The nylon top housing of the Lime creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Plum produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the Plum's polycarbonate top housing is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows the lighting effects to shine through.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches use nylon, which also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nylon in the bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound, resulting in a similar duller and rounder sound when typing. However, it's essential to note that the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
To summarize, the choice of housing materials in the Outemu Lime and the Kailh Plum switches leads to differences in their sound profiles. The Lime, with its nylon top housing, provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Plum, with its polycarbonate top housing, offers a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile for the bottom-out sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The Lime switch has an actuation force of 35 grams, making it light and effortless to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Plum switch is unknown, so a direct comparison cannot be made. However, the bottom out force of the Lime switch is 45 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel when pressing all the way down. On the other hand, the Plum switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy and providing a more substantial typing experience.
Considering the weight of the switches, the Lime switch is lighter overall, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for easier and quicker keystrokes. In contrast, the Plum switch, with its heavier bottom out force, provides a more pronounced push and a satisfying feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Although the actuation force for the Plum switch is unknown, it is worth noting that if both switches have similar actuation forces, the results will be similar in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, the difference lies in the bottom out force, where the Plum switch is noticeably heavier. Therefore, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Lime switch, while those seeking a more substantial and pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Plum switch.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch differ slightly. The Lime has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have gained popularity in recent years. Gamers, in particular, prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Lime switch with its 3.3 mm travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press experience, the Plum switch's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 is described as having a neutral sound profile with a muted characteristic. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile. However, since the specific sound characteristics of the Plum switch are not mentioned, it can be assumed that it produces a moderate sound profile similar to the Lime switch. Overall, both switches provide a pleasant and neutral sound experience, making them suitable for various settings.
Regarding feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience. The light actuation force required by the Lime switch reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The switch also has a subtle and polished feel, with gentle resistance and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Kailh Plum tactile switch provides a mild typing experience. It is described as having a stepped feel, which means that it has two stages of tactile feedback. While it is not specified how pronounced the tactile bump is in the Plum switch, it can be inferred that it provides a gentle and approachable feel. Both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience with varying levels of tactility.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lime and Kailh Plum tactile switches differ in their specific characteristics. The Lime switch is unique for its lightweight nature, approachable tactility, and silence. It offers a feathery light typing experience with a subtle and polished feel. On the other hand, the Plum switch stands out for its weightiness and mild tactile bump. It provides a hefty feel without a prominent tactile feedback. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, ensuring a pleasant typing experience. While the Plum switch lacks specific details about its sound and feel, it can be assumed to provide similar results to the Lime switch due to its neutral characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility and want a switch that is both lightweight and silenced, then the Outemu Lime tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a switch that feels hefty without a pronounced tactile bump and has a neutral and enjoyable sound profile, then the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a great option. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, the Lime is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, while the Plum is described as mild and stepped. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on your specific preferences for typing experience and sound.
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