Outemu Lime (V3) vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two options to consider are the Outemu Lime and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. These switches offer different experiences but both have their own unique advantages. The Lime switches are lightweight, featuring an approachable tactility, and are also silenced, making them perfect for tactile fans who crave a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches provide a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. While these general descriptions provide a good starting point, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Lime and the SP-Star Polaris Gray have contrasting housing materials. The Lime features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The difference in these materials directly affects the sound profile of the switches. Typing on the Lime, with its nylon housing, creates a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound profile.
Aesthetically, the choice of housing material also varies between the two switches. The Lime's nylon top housing does not have the translucency that polycarbonate offers. This means that if RGB lighting is desired, the Polaris Gray is a better option. The transparency of polycarbonate allows RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. However, if RGB lighting is not a priority, the Lime's nylon top housing still provides a classic and durable option.
When it comes to the impact on the switch's performance, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the sound and feel when pressing down on a key. The softer nature of nylon in the Lime's bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out a key. Conversely, the stiffer polycarbonate in the Polaris Gray's bottom housing contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile. However, the release of a key and the sound it produces when letting go is influenced more by the top housing material. Hence, the choice between the Lime and the Polaris Gray depends on the desired sound and overall typing experience one seeks to achieve.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams, making it relatively light, while the Polaris Gray's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Lime requires 45 grams, indicating a slightly heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Lime as it allows for longer typing periods, ideal for those using their keyboards extensively at work or during lengthy gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Polaris Gray due to its potentially heavier actuation force.
While the exact actuation force for the Polaris Gray is unavailable, it is safe to assume that it may offer a similar or heavier typing experience than the Lime, depending on the user's preference. Both switches have their own advantages based on the desired typing sensation, with the Lime being lighter and the Polaris Gray potentially providing a more significant push for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch are different. The Lime has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Polaris Gray has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of overall distance, the Polaris Gray is the longer switch, offering a more pronounced key press experience with its 4 mm travel distance. On the other hand, the Lime provides a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Some individuals may prefer the Lime for its shorter travel distance, as it allows for faster response times, which is especially favored by gamers. However, those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Polaris Gray with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
The Outemu Lime (V3) 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Lime switches are best described as having a neutral sound profile with a muted characteristic. The neutral profile means that the actuation force requirement and overall sound level are moderate, making them suitable for most users and situations. However, what sets the Lime switches apart is their muted sound. They produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise often associated with mechanical keyboards.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches are known for their low-pitched sound profile. This means that they have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to switches with higher pitches. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switches are also described as having a neutral sound, which aligns with their moderate actuation force requirement. However, what distinguishes them is the thocky characteristic. Thocky switches produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, almost like a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Outemu Lime and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer a more mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle and comfortable feel without any pronounced characteristics. The mild feel of these switches makes them approachable and suitable for most users.
Furthermore, the Lime switches have a feathery feel, making them exceptionally light to press and reducing finger fatigue. This light actuation force allows for a comfortable typing experience even during extended sessions. The Lime switches also provide a subtle typing feel, which is not feather-light but still maintains a light touch. Additionally, they possess a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Similarly, the Polaris Gray switches also have a mild feel, offering a gentle and comfortable typing experience. They feature a polished finish as well, providing a sleek and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lime tactile switches and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lime switches are lightweight, feature an approachable tactility, and have a muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches offer a bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched sound and a thocky characteristic. Both switches provide a mild typing experience and possess a polished finish for smooth and refined key travel. While their qualities may differ, both switches are suitable for those seeking a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are a tactile fan seeking a lightweight and silenced typing experience, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches offer a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility. The Lime switches are also known for their approachable tactility, making them perfect for those who prefer a gentle typing experience. Additionally, the Lime switches are muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, making them suitable for use in shared spaces.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy typing experience. The Polaris Gray switches are known for their clean and clacky sound profile, which can add a satisfying touch to your typing sessions. They also have a mild and polished feel, providing a refined and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch depends on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. Consider whether you prioritize lightweight and silenced tactility or a bouncy and clacky typing experience, as well as the smoothness and refinement of the switch. Assessing these factors will help you make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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