Outemu Lime (V3) vs. HMX SU

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Lime and HMX SU present two distinct options tailored to different preferences and typing experiences. The Outemu Lime is celebrated for its lightweight design and approachable tactility, offering a smooth yet responsive feedback that appeals to tactile enthusiasts seeking a serene, silenced typing experience. With descriptors like 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Feathery', these switches provide a gentle touch without overwhelming the user. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch delivers a more straightforward experience, characterized by its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, producing a richer sound profile that is subtly deep but devoid of any tactile bumps. While the Lime is ideal for those who favor a delicate feel with a hint of tactility for added engagement, the SU caters to users who prefer the simplicity and smoothness of linear switches without the interruption of tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Lime (V3) Tactile

HMX SU Linear

$3.40 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Lime and HMX SU both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housing, highlighting their commitment to classic switch materials known for their acoustic properties. The use of nylon in both switch models is significant, as it is recognized for its softer plastic composition, which contributes to producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. When typing on switches made with nylon, the enhanced sound absorption helps create a richer auditory experience by dulling and rounding the sound, thereby minimizing the sharp noises typically associated with harder plastics. This shared material choice undoubtedly results in a comparable sound experience between the Lime and SU, offering users a satisfying auditory feedback as they engage with their keyboards.

While both switches feature nylon in their construction, the overall feel and acoustic profile can still vary, depending on design nuances and tuning. Each housing type influences the sound produced when the keys are engaged and released; specifically, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, while the top housing primarily affects the noise when releasing a key. Therefore, even with both switches using nylon, if there are subtle design differences—for example, variations in housing molding or assembly—the result could be slight deviations in how sound and feel are perceived, despite the material's inherent qualities being consistent across the two models.

Ultimately, the similarity in housing materials between the Outemu Lime and HMX SU ensures that both switches deliver a notable auditory performance attributable to nylon's properties. Users can expect a similar user experience, characterized by a softer sound output and tactile response. However, the final impression will depend on additional design elements that might differentiate the two in terms of typing feel and acoustic quality. Nevertheless, the use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings ensures that fans of the deep and rounded sound signature will likely appreciate both switches for their comparable acoustic profiles, providing a satisfying typing experience regardless of the specific model chosen.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, significant differences can be observed in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the HMX SU has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a heavier switch. This distinction in actuation force means that users who favor a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming may prefer the Lime, while those who seek a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push might find the SU more fitting. Overall, while both switches are classified as light, the Outemu Lime is the lighter of the two, offering a gentler touch compared to the HMX SU.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, we see a distinct difference. The Outemu Lime has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX SU features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Lime switch provides a shorter travel distance, which may be preferable for gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the HMX SU, with its longer travel distance, might appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced key press and a sense of depth. Therefore, individuals leaning toward responsiveness might favor the Lime, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel might select the SU switch instead.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a neutral and muted experience. It features a moderate actuation force and produces a softer, quieter sound compared to more traditional, clacky mechanical switches. This makes it suitable for use in a variety of environments, whether at home or in a professional setting, as it minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The HMX SU linear switch, on the other hand, has an unspecified sound profile, so without additional details, we can't make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, given that the SU's sound experience will also depend on the build quality of the keyboard and the keycaps used, it's possible for them to yield similar sound profiles depending on those factors.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime switch stands out with its feathery light actuation, making each keystroke feel almost effortless. This is complemented by its mild, subtle tactile feedback, providing an approachable typing experience while still being refined and polished in its movement. Typing on the Lime is comfortable for extended sessions due to its minimal exertion requirement, which can greatly reduce finger fatigue. Unfortunately, the HMX SU switch does not have any specified feel characteristics, so a direct comparison cannot be made here either.

In conclusion, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a well-rounded combination of muted sound and a smooth, light typing feel, perfect for those who appreciate a gentle touch while typing. The HMX SU linear switch's qualities remain largely unknown in both sound and feel, making it more challenging to draw a direct comparison. However, if you're leaning towards a tactile and muted experience, the Lime would be a solid choice. For those open to exploration, the SU could provide an alternative option, pending further insights into its acoustic and tactile characteristics.

Conclusion

In summary, your choice between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you favor a lightweight typing experience with a subtle tactile bump, the Outemu Lime would be an excellent choice, especially if you want a switch that offers comfort during long typing sessions while maintaining a muted sound profile. This makes them particularly suited for shared spaces such as offices or libraries, where noise might be a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer the smoothness of linear switches without the distraction of a tactile bump and can appreciate a slightly deeper sound profile, the HMX SU is likely the better option. It would also be ideal if you enjoy a switch that adds a touch of premium feel to your typing experience, thanks to its PA12 housing and T5 stem. Ultimately, both switches cater to specific preferences, so consider what aspects of typing and sound matter most to you in your mechanical keyboard journey.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Lime (V3) Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more