Outemu Lime vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and the HMX Poro offer distinctly different experiences tailored to varying preferences among typists and gamers. The Outemu Lime, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its lightweight design and subtle tactile feedback, providing a gentle bump during each keystroke without the sharpness often associated with traditional tactile switches. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a softer typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. In contrast, the HMX Poro is a linear switch that promises a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, thanks in part to its meticulous lubrication, which allows for a silky glide. Its ultra-light actuation force adds to the ease of typing, while the satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile appeals to those who enjoy auditory feedback as they type. While both switches cater to distinct preferences—tactile and linear—they each have unique characteristics that may appeal to different users. 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
45g
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and HMX Poro switches are both made from nylon, which contributes to their distinct acoustic profiles and tactile experiences. Both switches feature a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This phenomenon arises from nylon's relatively softer composition, which effectively absorbs sound waves, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made from harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a similarly rich auditory experience when using either switch, providing a satisfying feedback loop that can enhance typing comfort.
In addition to their shared nylon top housing, both the Outemu Lime and HMX Poro switches also utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This consistency in material means that the overall sound profile will remain cohesive across both switches, delivering improved acoustics when typing. The soft nature of nylon allows both the top and bottom housings to work in harmony, further enriching the sound experience and ensuring that the keys have a similar bottom-out feel. Thus, the users can anticipate a uniform combination of auditory and tactile feedback while typing on either switch, as both housings contribute equally to the overall engagement.
However, it's important to note that if there were differences between the top and bottom housing materials, the resulting typing experience would exhibit variations based on the unique properties of each housing. In this scenario, the bottom housing would primarily influence the sound and feel upon bottoming out, while the top housing would shape the auditory experience upon releasing the key. Thankfully, since both the Outemu Lime and HMX Poro utilize identical nylon materials for both top and bottom housings, users will enjoy a consistent and harmonious typing experience, unimpeded by contrasting materials that might dilute the switches’ performance.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different user preferences. The Outemu Lime has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, whereas the HMX Poro is heavier, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Lime is better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for extended typing sessions with less finger fatigue. In contrast, the Poro's higher actuation and bottom out forces may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing, providing a sense of resistance that some find more satisfying. Overall, if you seek a lighter switch for portability and long usage, the Outemu Lime is the right choice; if you prefer a heavier push, the HMX Poro is more suitable.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Poro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Lime the shorter option, appealing to gamers and users who prioritize quick response times due to its reduced distance. On the other hand, the Poro's longer travel distance caters to those who prefer a more substantial depth in their keystrokes, offering a potentially more satisfying tactile experience. While both switches have their own merits, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth in key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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 comparing the sound profile of the Outemu Lime and HMX Poro switches, the Lime is characterized by its neutral and muted tones. This means it operates with moderate sound levels, well-suited for environments like offices or homes where noise might be a concern. The muted aspect indicates that it produces a softer auditory feedback, minimizing the clattering noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Poro switches are not detailed, leaving a gap in understanding their sound profile. However, given the description of their smooth operation, one may assume that they have a pleasant sound that complements their linear design, creating a distinct auditory experience that differs from Limes.
In terms of feel, the Lime switches excel with their mild, feathery, subtle, and polished characteristics. They provide a gentle typing experience that is user-friendly and minimizes finger fatigue, making them ideal for long typing sessions. The light actuation force they offer assists in reducing strain, appealing especially to users who spend countless hours on their keyboards. The polished quality enhances smooth key travel, promising an effortlessly enjoyable typing experience. Conversely, the Poro's tactile feedback and feel attributes are unspecified, so it is difficult to draw direct comparisons. However, since they are described as silky smooth, it suggests a lack of resistance that could appeal to enthusiasts who prefer linear switches for an uninterrupted keystroke.
When synthesizing these attributes, the Outemu Lime tactile switch presents a robust option for those who appreciate a muted yet tactile experience, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users. Its unique combination of light tactility and soft sound sets a distinct atmosphere for typing. In contrast, while specific qualities of the HMX Poro linear switch remain unknown, its promise of smooth operation and a potentially satisfying sound profile indicates that it could deliver a different yet complementary experience for users leaning towards linear feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback with quieter operation or seek effortless linearity in your keystrokes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you appreciate a lightweight feel with a touch of tactility, and you're looking for a quiet option suitable for shared environments, the Lime switch is an excellent fit. Its muted sound profile and minimal actuation force make it ideal for extended typing sessions, whether for gaming, studying, or professional use. On the other hand, if you're seeking a smooth, linear experience with a poppy sound profile that adds excitement to your keystrokes, the HMX Poro switch will be your go-to choice. The slightly higher bottom-out force of the Poro can provide a satisfying feedback for those who prefer a bit more resistance during their typing, and its buttery glide is particularly appealing for fast-paced typing or gaming. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style: choose the Lime for a light and quiet experience, or the Poro for a lively and smooth performance.
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