Outemu Lime vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, personal preferences often dictate the best option for individual users. The Outemu Lime switch stands out with its unique blend of lightweight construction and gentle tactility, making it an ideal choice for tactile enthusiasts who prefer a soft typing experience without overwhelming feedback. This switch is categorized by descriptors like 'Neutral' and 'Mild,' emphasizing a user-friendly experience that balances comfort and engagement. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch offers a whisper-quiet typing experience aimed at those who value silence as much as performance. With an ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, this linear switch appeals to light typists seeking a serene typing environment—characterized by smooth keystrokes akin to gentle raindrops. While the Lime provides a tactile feel, the Silent Sakura prioritizes a noiseless experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that truly fits your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, both switches utilize nylon for their top housings, a classic choice noted for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic properties, which absorb sound more effectively than harder materials. As a result, users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing, as both switches will offer a rounded, muted sound that enhances the overall typing experience. This shared material in the top housing ensures that regardless of the distinct characteristics found in their respective bottom housings, the initial impact and tactile sensation when pressing the key will be comparable in terms of sound quality.
The bottom housing materials differ significantly between the two switches. The Lime features a nylon bottom housing, similar to its top, which contributes to its cohesive sound profile. This further emphasizes the softer, rounded sound that users can expect when bottoming out the key. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, a stiffer material that provides a sharper, clearer sound profile. As polycarbonate is known for its resonating qualities, the contrast in materials means that the overall sound experience will diverge at the bottom-out stage—where the Lime's nylon will maintain the fuller, softer tone, while the Silent Sakura - 43g offers a more pronounced, crisp auditory response.
The tonal qualities produced when utilizing both switches will be a fusion of their respective housing materials. With the top housings being identical in material, the retention of a deep sound profile persists through both switches, particularly when key releases occur. However, the difference in bottom housing material signifies a distinct auditory experience when keys are fully pressed down. For users seeking a consistent sound when typing, the Outemu Lime's design reinforces a soft and deep sound, whereas the Silent Sakura - 43g balances this with a more dynamic auditory clarity—a testament to how the interplay of materials in keyboard switches can tailor the acoustic environment experienced by typists.
Weight
The Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch both feature relatively light forces suitable for users who prefer a gentle typing experience. The Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Silent Sakura requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 37 grams but has a lower bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Lime feels lighter overall, particularly during actuation, making it a good choice for those who plan to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Sakura provides a slightly more pronounced feel at the actuation point, which might appeal to users who prefer a bit more resistance. While both switches are designed for comfort, the Outemu Lime is the lighter option, whereas the Silent Sakura provides a marginally stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, the difference is quite notable. The Outemu Lime has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that those who prefer a shorter travel distance may find the Lime switch more responsive, making it suitable for rapid typing or gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura switch's 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional and deeper feel, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, if you're looking for faster response times, the Outemu Lime is the better choice, whereas if you're after a more substantial tactile sensation, the HMX Silent Sakura would be more appropriate.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Sakura - 43g 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
The sound profile of the Outemu Lime tactile switch is characterized as neutral and muted. This combination delivers a moderate sound level that is not obtrusive, making it versatile for various environments, whether in a more professional workspace or at home. The muted quality ensures that the noise typically associated with mechanical switches is significantly reduced, providing a quieter typing experience without compromising on the tactile engagement. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for a whisper-quiet operation, evoking a serene ambiance akin to gentle rainfall. While not explicitly detailed, one can expect the Silent Sakura to also possess a subdued sound signature, which, like the Lime, ensures minimal disruption in shared spaces.
When it comes to feel, the Lime switches present an approachable typing experience with their mild, feathery, subtle, and polished characteristics. They require minimal effort to actuate, reducing finger fatigue and promoting comfort over extended typing sessions. The tactility, although present, is soft, making them suitable for users who enjoy tactile feedback without the harshness often associated with more pronounced switches. On the other hand, the feel of the Silent Sakura 43g is not explicitly described, leaving some elements of its tactile feedback and overall typing experience less defined. However, given their engineering focus on quietness and an ultra-light feel, one can reasonably infer a preference for a gentle touch.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Lime and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches cater to users looking for a light and comfortable typing experience with minimal sound production. The Lime’s mild tactility and muted sound make it appealing for a broader audience, while the Silent Sakura's focus on whisper-quiet operation suggests it would be suitable for the most delicate of typing environments. While the Lime offers a bit more defined tactile feedback, both switches are excellent choices for typists prioritizing a serene ambiance and fatigue-free sessions.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environments where you'll use your keyboard. If you gravitate towards a light and tactile typing experience that offers just the right amount of feedback without overwhelming noise, the Lime switch may be your ideal pick; it provides a mild and feathery touch, making it perfect for both gaming and extended typing sessions without considerable finger fatigue. Furthermore, its muted sound profile makes it versatile enough for use in shared spaces or quieter environments. On the other hand, if your priority leans towards achieving a serene, whisper-quiet typing experience, the Silent Sakura with its ultra-light actuation force will suit you well. It’s particularly advantageous for light typists who desire a subtle, smooth feel and a quiet atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for office settings or late-night typing. Consider your specific needs in tactile feedback, sound levels, and overall feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and habitual environment.
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