Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and Dareu Snow are two popular options that offer unique typing experiences. The Outemu Lime is a tactile switch known for its lightweight feel, approachable tactility, and silent operation. Perfect for tactile enthusiasts seeking a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility, the Lime switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow is a linear switch that stands out for its use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a smooth typing experience with a deeper sound signature. Categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', the Snow switch offers a different feel compared to the Lime. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Dareu Snow, we find that both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Snow's POK material top housing is praised for its exceptionally strong durability and smooth feel, with wear resistance 14 times stronger than POM. While both contribute to a smooth typing experience, the Snow's POK material may offer a slight edge in terms of durability and overall feel.
Moving on to the bottom housing, we see that both the Lime and Snow switches utilize nylon for this component. Again, the use of nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition. While both switches share this characteristic in their bottom housing material, it's important to note that differences in the top housing material may still impact the overall typing experience. Despite sharing the same material for the bottom housing, the unique properties of their respective top housings may lead to distinct typing sensations.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Lime and the Dareu Snow may result in slightly varying typing experiences. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the Snow's POK material top housing offers enhanced durability and smoothness compared to the Lime's nylon top housing. The material used in the top housing can have a significant impact on the overall feel and sound of the switch, meaning despite similarities in the bottom housing, the overall typing experience may differ between the two switches.
Weight
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Similarly, the Lime switch has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Snow switch has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Lime switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Snow switch would be better suited for users who prefer a more substantial push feel when typing. Both switches, however, provide a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This can result in a similar typing experience in terms of key travel and feel. Overall, both switches offer consistent tactile feedback and smooth actuation, making them suitable options for keyboard enthusiasts who prefer a moderate travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 neutral and muted typing experience, perfect for those looking for a quieter switch suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, giving a satisfying and deep typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Lime switch offers a more subdued sound, while the Snow switch delivers a more pronounced and rich typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime switch provides a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and a smooth key travel. On the contrary, the Dareu Snow switch offers a bouncy and lively feedback sensation, giving keys a spring-like feel with a satisfying rebound when pressed. Both switches cater to different typing preferences, with the Lime focusing on a gentle and lightweight typing experience, while the Snow emphasizes a more resilient and dynamic keypress sensation.
Overall, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lime switch is ideal for those seeking a lightweight and silenced typing experience with a touch of tactility, while the Snow switch is perfect for individuals looking for a smoother linear switch with a deeper sound signature. Ultimately, both switches provide unique attributes that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will get a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, a tactile feel, and a quieter typing experience, the Lime switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium actuation force, a smooth linear feel, and a deeper sound profile, the Snow switch would better suit your needs. Consider factors such as the type of typing experience you prefer, the level of sound you desire, and how much force you are comfortable with when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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