Outemu Lime (V3) vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Lime and HMX Sunset Gleam offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Outemu Lime switches shine with their lightweight design and feather-light tactility, providing a subtle yet satisfying feedback that keeps typing comfortable for long sessions. They are perfect for those who enjoy a tactile experience without the harshness often associated with traditional tactile switches, making them ideal for users seeking a muted and polished touch. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, excels in its linearity, delivering a smooth keystroke complemented by a satisfying clack thanks to its high-quality materials and excellent factory lubrication. This switch appeals to typists looking for an uninterrupted, fluid typing experience that allows for rapid key presses, making it a fantastic choice for gamers or those who prioritize speed. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Lime (V3) Tactile

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.40 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches highlight distinct audio profiles and tactile experiences due to their differing compositions. The Lime's top housing is constructed from nylon, a material known for its ability to absorb sound. This property contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, making each keystroke feel more substantial and muted. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam features a polycarbonate top housing. This stiffer material produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, creating a more resonant and pronounced auditory experience. The translucency of polycarbonate enhances compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing for visual effects that accentuate the overall keyboard aesthetics.

When examining the bottom housings, both the Outemu Lime and HMX Sunset Gleam utilize nylon, which brings a consistent auditory character across these switches. The nylon bottom housing in both cases fosters a similar deep and rounded sound profile, irrespective of the top housing material. Therefore, while the top housings create different auditory effects (with the Lime providing a muted tone and the Sunset Gleam offering clarity), the nylon bottom in both switches ensures that the typing experience retains a uniform depth of sound. This duality comes into play during keystrokes, where both switches exhibit a satisfying bottom-out feel influenced by the nylon.

Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch leads to unique user experiences. The Outemu Lime’s nylon top fosters a warm and mellow typing experience, while the Sunset Gleam's polycarbonate top injects brightness and clarity into each keystroke. However, due to the shared nylon bottom, both switches maintain a fundamental sonic cohesion that underpins their performance. Thus, even as they differ in top housing materials, users can expect a satisfying typing experience characterized by a rich depth courtesy of the nylon component in both models.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Lime features an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option of the two. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam has a higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, indicating a heavier resistance. This makes the Lime better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Sunset Gleam may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel. Overall, while both switches are classified as "light," the Lime is definitively lighter compared to the Sunset Gleam.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the Lime switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Sunset Gleam has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Lime the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers and users seeking faster response times due to its reduced distance. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more traditional feel, suitable for those who prefer the tactile feedback and depth associated with a larger travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for responsiveness versus a more pronounced feel when pressing down on keys.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the Lime stands out for its neutral and muted characteristics. This means that the Lime offers a moderate sound profile, suitable for a variety of environments, which makes it a versatile choice whether you are a beginner or advanced user. The muted nature of the Lime enhances its appeal, particularly in shared spaces where noise reduction is valued. In contrast, the sound properties of the Sunset Gleam are not specified, leaving its auditory experience open to interpretation, but given its design, one could expect it to provide a satisfying clack typical of linear switches.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime shines with its mild, feathery, subtle, and polished qualities. It delivers a gentle typing experience that reduces finger fatigue, making it ideal for long typing sessions. The tactility is approachable, striking a balance that caters to both casual users and enthusiasts. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX Sunset Gleam remains undefined in the provided information, which leaves potential users guessing about its tactile feedback, though one might infer that it could differ significantly from the Lime’s tactile nature due to its linear design.

Overall, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a unique combination of tactile feedback, muted sound, and a lightweight feel that excels in handling long typing sessions with minimal strain. Its strengths make it perfect for a quiet environment while still providing a satisfying typing experience. The HMX Sunset Gleam, while not explicitly described, suggests a more traditional linear experience that may appeal to those who prefer a different tactile profile. However, without explicit details on its feel and sound, potential users should take additional factors into consideration, such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, to make an informed decision that aligns with their preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and your intended use. If you prefer a switch that provides a lightly tactile experience with a quieter sound profile, the Lime is an excellent choice. Its feather-light actuation force of 45 grams makes it ideal for those long typing sessions whether you are working, studying, or gaming, as it minimizes finger fatigue and offers a polished feel. Perfect for shared spaces, the muted nature of the Lime will ensure you aren't distracting others around you. Conversely, if you favor a smooth linear feel with a bit more resistance at 48 grams and a satisfying sound, the Sunset Gleam is designed for you. This switch, praised for its subtle clacking and excellent factory lubrication, swings towards a more traditional gaming aesthetic while maintaining a refined touch. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you value the delicate tactility and silence of the Lime or the smooth linearity and satisfying feedback of the Sunset Gleam.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Lime (V3) Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more