Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the options can be overwhelming, especially with distinct types like the Outemu Lime and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie. The Outemu Lime is celebrated for its lightweight design, providing a feather-light tactile experience that is both muted and polished, making it an excellent choice for tactile enthusiasts who appreciate subtle feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offers a medium-weight linear feel, characterized by its smooth action and thocky sound profile, which appeals to those who prefer an uninterrupted keystroke while typing or gaming. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the Lime perfect for a quiet, tactile experience and the Sea Salt Smoothie ideal for a smooth, silent feel. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, notable differences arise, particularly between the nylon used in the Lime's housing and the POM employed in the Sea Salt Smoothie. The Lime features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic material, which enhances sound absorption and results in a duller, rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM top and bottom housings produce a unique sound that is also deep but has a relatively muted quality. While both switches offer a satisfying typing sound, the characteristics of the sound profile can be distinctly felt due to the differing materials.
Both switches, being constructed with different housing materials, elicit varying sound dynamics. The nylon used in the Lime’s construction provides a softer, rounder auditory feedback upon keystrokes, contributing to a fuller sound that may appeal to users who prefer a more subdued acoustic environment. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie leverages POM material, which creates an innovative sound profile, distinct yet equally muted, providing a level of auditory satisfaction that may cater to users who appreciate a less pronounced sound. This contrast highlights how the choice of materials plays a vital role in the overall sound experience and tactile feedback produced by each switch.
Ultimately, despite the differences in housing materials, similar typing results can be achieved through the qualities unique to both switches. The nylon housing of the Outemu Lime absorbs sound effectively, promoting a deeper and rounded typing experience, while the POM housing of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie ensures a unique and pleasing auditory experience through its muted sound profile. The interaction between the top and bottom housings in each switch exemplifies how the characteristics of the materials can influence both bottom-out sounds and the acoustic response upon key release. Thus, while the materials differ, users may find that both switches deliver satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences through their own distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch to the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, there's a notable difference in the actuation force. The Lime switch has a relatively light actuation force of 35 grams, making it easier for prolonged typing sessions and gaming, which can be a significant advantage for users who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie requires a heftier actuation force of 48 grams, catering to those who appreciate a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie remains unknown, making it impossible to compare it directly to the Lime's bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that while the Lime provides a consistent tactile feedback with a noticeable bottoming out sensation, the Sea Salt Smoothie’s performance could vary depending on its unconfirmed bottom out characteristics. Therefore, for those who enjoy lighter switches, the Outemu Lime would be the favorable choice, whereas the heavier actuation of the Sea Salt Smoothie would appeal to users seeking more resistance during typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, the Lime features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that if you opt for the Lime switch, you'll experience a shorter keypress, which can provide a quicker response time—an appealing trait for gamers seeking speed. Conversely, the Sea Salt Smoothie, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced depth that some users might prefer, providing a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize faster responsiveness or a more substantial feel during key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a notably neutral and muted typing experience. The neutral quality allows for a moderate sound profile that can fit well in various environments, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users. Its muted characteristics further minimize the traditional clack associated with many mechanical switches, providing a softer auditory experience which is appreciated in shared spaces. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch is celebrated for its thocky sound profile, which, while not explicitly detailed, suggests a refined auditory experience that is likely more resonant and satisfying for users who enjoy deeper sound signatures. However, the sound of the Sea Salt Smoothie can also depend heavily on external factors like the choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime switch is characterized by a mild, feathery, and subtle typing experience. This lightweight design makes it incredibly approachable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, whether for gaming or work. The polished finish of the Lime enhances the smoothness of the key travel, providing a refined feel that is often desirable. In contrast, while specific descriptors for the feel of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie are not provided, it is generally understood that linear switches aim for a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile bump. This can lead to a different sensation compared to the tactile feedback offered by the Limes, attracting a different type of user preference.
In summary, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a quiet, mild, and comfortable typing experience suited for environments where noise is a concern, making it ideal for those who value a subtle tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switch delivers a thocky sound that enhances the auditory experience of typing, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for both sound and feel, but users can expect a gentle, refined typing experience from the Lime and a smooth, satisfying stroke from the Sea Salt Smoothie.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, you'll want to consider your typing preferences and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you enjoy a light, tactile response and prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Lime is an excellent choice. Its feathery light actuation and muted sound profile make it ideal for extended use in shared workspaces, where minimal noise and comfort over long sessions are essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth typing feel with a hint of auditory feedback, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie may be better suited for you. Known for its thocky sound and exceptional smoothness, it provides a satisfying experience for those who enjoy linear switches and don’t mind a bit more audible feedback without being overly loud. In essence, your choice should reflect whether you value a tactile and quiet typing experience or seek smoothness and a rich sound.
Mentioned in this article
