Outemu Lime (V3) vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to look at are the Outemu Lime, a tactile switch, and the KTT Purple Star, a linear switch. The Lime switches stand out for their lightweight design, approachable tactility, and silent operation, making them perfect for tactile enthusiasts who prefer a feathery light typing experience with just a hint of tactility. On the other hand, the Purple Star switches are renowned for their smooth all-POM construction, providing a buttery typing feel with a neutral sound profile. With a very light 45g bottom-out force, the Purple Star switches are ideal for those who prefer a gentle and comfortable typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the KTT Purple Star switches, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Lime switch features a nylon top housing, which is known for absorbing sound and creating a duller, rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch utilizes a POM top housing, which is said to produce a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted. Despite the differences in material, both top housings are geared towards enhancing the overall sound profile of the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials of the two switches, the Lime switch once again utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Similarly, the Purple Star switch features a POM bottom housing, which is known for creating a unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. While the specific qualities of each bottom housing material may vary slightly, both are designed to enhance the tactile and auditory feedback of the switch during use.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials of a switch interact, it is important to note that they both play a role in shaping the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. Despite the differences in materials between the Outemu Lime and KTT Purple Star switches, both are designed to optimize the typing experience through a combination of sound absorption, tactile feedback, and overall sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Lime is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lime requires 35 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, while the Purple Star necessitates 43 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Purple Star may be a better choice due to its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feedback and the desired weight of keypresses.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the KTT Purple Star has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Lime. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, as the traditional range is between 3.0 mm to 4.0 mm. Gamers may prefer the Outemu Lime for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the KTT Purple Star with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference for key travel depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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 offers a muted and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to other switches. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preferences and the setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a feathery, mild, subtle, and polished typing experience. These qualities make it incredibly light to press, with gentle resistance and a smooth key travel, reducing finger fatigue and offering comfort during extended typing sessions. Similarly, the KTT Purple Star linear switch also offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, with minimal force required to activate the keys. Both switches provide a comfortable and approachable typing feel, catering to the preferences of light typists.
Overall, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lime switch provides a softer and quieter typing experience with a touch of tactility, while the Purple Star switch offers a smooth and buttery typing feel with a low-pitched sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, but both are designed to enhance the overall typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light typing experience and a touch of tactility, the Outemu Lime switches would be the ideal choice for you. These switches are known for their lightweight feel, approachable tactility, and silenced operation, making them perfect for those who enjoy a feathery light typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a buttery smooth typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the KTT Purple Star switches would be more suitable for you. With their POM construction and low bottom-out force, these switches offer an effortless and comfortable typing experience, perfect for light typists. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Lime and KTT Purple Star switches will depend on your preference for tactility and typing feel, so consider these factors carefully before making your decision.
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