Outemu Lime (V3) vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and the KTT Strawberry are two notable options that offer distinct features and benefits. The Lime switches stand out with their lightweight design, approachable tactility, and silent operation. This makes them a fantastic choice for tactile enthusiasts who crave a smooth and feathery typing experience with a hint of tactility. On the other hand, the Strawberry switches are highly regarded for their enticing pink and clear housings, delivering a visually appealing option. Moreover, these switches offer a seamless actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With their low-pitched nature and frictionless operation, they provide a silky and buttery typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Lime and the KTT Strawberry differ in the material used for both their top and bottom housings. The Lime features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Strawberry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the Strawberry is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a more visually appealing experience. While the top housings differ, the bottom housings for both switches share the same materials as their respective top housings. This means that the Lime and Strawberry will provide similar qualities when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound (Lime) or a sharper and crisper sound (Strawberry).
The choice of housing material also impacts the sound when you release a key. With the Outemu Lime, the nylon top housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound when keys are released. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the KTT Strawberry leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile upon key release. This difference in sound is an important consideration for those who value the auditory feedback of their typing experience. Additionally, the top housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile of the switch. While the Lime's nylon bottom housing is likely to have a similar effect on the bottom-out sound and feel as its top housing, the same can be said for the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing. Therefore, if a user desires a more consistent sound experience throughout the typing process, both the Lime and Strawberry will provide similar results.
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Lime and the KTT Strawberry comes down to personal preferences in terms of the sound profile and aesthetic considerations. The Lime's nylon housing materials create a deeper and fuller sound, while the Strawberry's polycarbonate housings produce a sharper and crisper sound. The polycarbonate top housing of the Strawberry is especially beneficial for those who wish to utilize RGB lighting, given its translucency. However, if a consistent sound experience is desired, both switches will provide similar results, as the bottom housings share the same materials as their respective top housings. Ultimately, individuals should consider their preferred sound profile and aesthetic needs when making a decision between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Lime has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Strawberry requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force, with the Lime requiring 45 grams and the Strawberry demanding 62 grams. Therefore, it is evident that the Strawberry is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Lime.
Considering the weight of these switches, lighter switches like the Lime are more suitable for individuals who prefer typing for extended periods or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force of the Lime allows for quicker keystrokes and less strain on the fingers. On the other hand, the Strawberry provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation force. This is appealing to those who desire a stronger push sensation while typing.
Overall, the Lime and Strawberry switches differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Lime is the lighter option, making it favorable for longer typing sessions, while the Strawberry offers a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Comparing these two distances, it is clear that the Lime has a shorter travel distance than the Strawberry. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered the most traditional, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.3 mm may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel, a longer travel distance like the 4 mm of the Strawberry may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have distinct subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel.
Starting with sound, the Lime switch is known for having a neutral sound profile with a moderate level of noise. It offers a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches, thanks to its silenced design. This makes it suitable for various environments, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is described as low-pitched, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This attribute adds a unique auditory experience to typing sessions. However, it's important to note that the actual sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Lime switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, falling within a safe, middle-ground range. It offers approachable qualities that are comfortable for most users. Additionally, the Lime switch can be described as feathery, meaning it requires little exertion and is exceptionally light to press. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Furthermore, the Lime switch has a subtle resistance and produces a non-resonant sound, making it suitable for shared spaces. The Strawberry switch, on the other hand, is known for its frictionless and silky feel. It offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The buttery attribute can also be associated with the Strawberry switch, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Both switches also share the polished quality, featuring a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The Lime switch provides a lightweight and silenced experience, with a mild, feathery, and polished feel. It appeals to tactile fans who desire a light typing experience with a touch of tactility. Alternatively, the Strawberry switch offers a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, with a low-pitched, frictionless, silky, and buttery feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to choose based on their preferences and typing style. However, if you seek a similar experience in terms of sound or feel between the two switches, it is important to note that they have their own distinctive qualities that cannot be exactly replicated.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a tactile enthusiast who prefers a feather-light typing experience with a touch of tactility, the Outemu Lime switches would be the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams and their unique lightweight nature, these switches offer a mild and subtle typing feel. Additionally, the Lime switches are silenced, ensuring a quieter typing experience. They have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you use them at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth actuation and reliable performance, the KTT Strawberry linear switches are the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, the Strawberries offer a medium feel, ensuring comfortable typing sessions. These switches are known for their low-pitched sound profile, producing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. They provide a frictionless and silky typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Lime tactile switches and the KTT Strawberry linear switches depends on your preferences. If you prefer a lighter and more tactile typing experience, go for the Lime switches. However, if you prioritize smoothness and reliability, the Strawberry switches would be the better option. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and overall feel to make the right decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. In the end, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences.
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