Outemu Lime vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and the Gateron Silent Ink Black offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lime switches are renowned for their lightweight build, approachable tactility, and the added advantage of being silenced. This makes them an excellent choice for tactile enthusiasts who prefer a feathery light typing experience with a subtle touch of feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches provide a cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal sound feedback, making them the perfect option for those seeking a quieter typing experience, especially in environments where noise reduction is essential. Both switches have their own set of qualities to offer; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches differ in terms of their composition. The Lime features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer and more absorbent properties, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the Lime switches. In contrast, the INK blend in the Silent Ink Black switches produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as "clacky," which adds a satisfying thinness to the typing experience.
While both switches have distinct sound profiles attributed to their respective housing materials, they also share some similarities. In terms of the top housing, the Lime's nylon and the Silent Ink Black's INK blend both contribute to the sound when releasing a key. Both materials help create a unique sound profile, with the Nylon producing a duller and rounder sound, and the INK blend offering a satisfying high-pitched yet not overly sharp tone. Therefore, they are likely to provide similar results when it comes to the sound experience upon key release.
However, it's worth noting that the bottom housing of the switches also plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In the case of the Lime switches, the softer and more absorbent nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switches with their INK blend bottom housing may produce a more pointed and slightly higher-pitched sound profile, adding an element of "clackiness" to the typing experience.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches differ, they each contribute to a unique sound profile. The nylon housing of the Lime adds a deeper and fuller sound, while Gateron's INK blend in the Silent Ink Black switches results in a satisfying high-pitched "clackiness." Nevertheless, they both provide a distinct sound upon key release, with the Nylon offering a duller and rounder tone and the INK blend producing a higher-pitched but not overly sharp sound. Additionally, the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel, with the nylon of the Lime providing a softer and more absorbent experience, and the INK blend potentially offering a slightly sharper and pointed sensation.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is evident that they have different weight characteristics. The Lime switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black switch requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lime switch would be a suitable choice as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for individuals using their keyboards for work or engaging in long gaming sessions. However, those who desire a more substantial and pronounced push feel may find the Silent Ink Black switch more suitable. With its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, it offers a stronger and more satisfying typing experience.
It is important to consider the weight of a switch as personal preferences may vary. While the Lime switch leans towards the lighter side, the Silent Ink Black switch falls into a medium-heavy category. Both switches deliver distinct typing experiences, catering to individuals who value either a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch differ in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lime switch provides a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended periods of use, while the Silent Ink Black switch offers a heavier and more substantial push feel. By choosing either of these switches, individuals can tailor their typing experience to their personal preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Comparing the two, it is clear that the Silent Ink Black has a longer travel distance. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while a 3.0 mm travel distance is shallower. In recent times, shorter travel distances have become more popular, with gamers preferring them for faster response times. If responsiveness is your priority, then opting for the Outemu Lime tactile switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a deeper key press, the Gateron Silent Ink Black with its longer travel distance offers a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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
In terms of sound, both the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch are described as "muted" switches. This means that they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, making them suitable for environments that necessitate quieter typing. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience. These switches are exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and strain during extended typing sessions. The Lime switch falls within the safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its qualities and offers a subtle and polished feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch provides a silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer muted sound profiles, making them suitable for quieter environments. However, the Lime switch is best known for its lightweight and approachable tactility, providing a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch provides a cushion-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback, offering a silky and polished typing experience. Overall, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience, either switch would provide similar results, but if you prefer lighter and more tactile typing, the Outemu Lime switch would be the better choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a tactile fan who prefers a lightweight typing experience with just a touch of tactility, then the Outemu Lime tactile switch is a great choice for you. These switches are perfect for those who want a feathery light typing feel and appreciate the silence they offer. They have a bottom out force of 45 grams, which makes them light and easy to press.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that provides a quieter typing experience, particularly in environments that require minimal audio feedback, then the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a cushion-like bottom-out feel and have a bottom out force of 70 grams, which gives them a medium-heavy feel.
In terms of sound, both switches are described as muted, meaning they produce softer and quieter sounds compared to regular or clacky switches. This makes them suitable for shared spaces or for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience, with a gentle resistance and reduced strain on your fingers. They also have a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch provides a silky and polished feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction.
Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a lighter and more tactile typing experience, then go for the Outemu Lime tactile switch. If you value a quieter typing experience and smoothness, then the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is the better option for you. Consider your typing needs and preferences to make an informed decision. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on your individual preferences.
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