Outemu Lime vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Outemu Lime, a tactile switch, and the HMX Swift, a linear switch. The Outemu Lime switch is characterized by its lightweight feel, approachable tactility, and silenced operation, making it a perfect choice for tactile enthusiasts looking for a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is known for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, offering a unique experience with its 42g actuation force. While the Lime switch provides a feathery, polished typing experience, the Swift switch offers a bouncy, creamy feel. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the Outemu Lime and the HMX Swift switches are nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Due to nylon being a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in materials means that both switches are likely to offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, where the two switches may differ is in how the housing materials are utilized in the design. For example, if the top and bottom housings are different for a particular switch, the qualities of each housing material will affect different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing, for instance, may have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing could influence the sound when releasing a key. This difference in housing design could potentially lead to varied typing experiences between the Outemu Lime and the HMX Swift.
Despite any potential differences in design, the fact that both switches use nylon for their housing materials suggests that users can expect a similar level of quality and performance from both. The nylon top and bottom housings in these switches provide a soft and sound-absorbing material that contributes to a deep and full sound profile while typing. Whether using the Outemu Lime or the HMX Swift, users can likely anticipate a comfortable and satisfying typing experience thanks to the shared use of nylon housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The Lime has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Swift has a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches are relatively light in comparison to other switches on the market. The lighter actuation force of the Lime may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, perfect for extended use during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Swift may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Lime has a shorter travel distance compared to the Swift. A shorter travel distance like the Lime's may be favored by gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance like the Swift's may provide a more substantial feel when typing. However, both switches fall within the range of commonly preferred travel distances, with 4.0mm being the most traditional and 3.0mm being the most shallow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound signature, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, with the Lime providing a more subdued typing experience while the Swift delivers a crisper and brighter sound quality.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime switch offers a feathery and polished typing experience, with its exceptionally light actuation force and smooth key travel. This results in reduced finger fatigue and a comfortable typing feel, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the HMX Swift switch is described as easy-to-press and bouncy, providing gentle resistance during key presses and a spring-like feedback sensation. Additionally, the Swift offers a creamy typing experience, with a smooth and buttery feel that enhances typing comfort.
Overall, both the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lime switch provides a quieter and subtler typing experience with its muted sound profile and feathery feel, making it ideal for those seeking a lightweight and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Swift switch stands out with its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, offering a more responsive and lively typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a lighter, feathery typing feel with a touch of tactility and silenced operation, the Lime switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth and easy-to-press typing sensation with a deeper sound profile and a lower actuation force, the Swift switches may be more to your liking. Think about whether you prioritize a gentle, polished typing experience with a lighter touch (Lime) or a responsive, bouncy feel with a creamy smoothness (Swift) when making your decision. Ultimately, your choice will depend on what type of typing experience you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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