Outemu Lime vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The world of mechanical keyboards is vast and diverse, with an assortment of switches to cater to every typing preference. Two popular choices in this realm are the Outemu Lime, a tactile switch, and the TKC Tangerine, a linear switch. The Lime switches are renowned for their unique traits as they are not only lightweight but also possess an inviting level of tactility, while remaining silent. This makes them an ideal choice for tactile enthusiasts who crave a typing experience that feels feather-light yet still provides a satisfying touch of tactility. On the other hand, we have the Tangerine switches, which are celebrated for taking the typing experience to new heights. With their exceptionally smooth feel, each keystroke becomes a delightful pleasure. One of the highlights of the Tangerine switches is their rare UHWMPE housings, which contributes to their unmatched smoothness. However, beyond these generalities, let's dive deeper into the specifics of each switch so you can make an informed choice that best suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Lime and the TKC Tangerine differ in terms of their housing materials. The Lime utilizes a nylon top housing, which is a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Tangerine features a UHWMPE top housing, a newer material that produces a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing on switches with such housing. Therefore, while the Lime offers a softer and more muffled sound, the Tangerine provides a brighter and more resonant sound when typing.
Similarly, the bottom housing of the Outemu Lime is made of nylon, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine incorporates a UHWMPE bottom housing, a newer material known for its bright sound signature. When pressing down on a Tangerine switch, the impact and sound produced during the bottom-out will be influenced by the UHWMPE bottom housing. Thus, the Tangerine delivers a more vibrant and resonant bottom-out sound compared to the Lime's softer and duller sound.
While the Outemu Lime and the TKC Tangerine differ in their housing materials for both the top and bottom, it is important to note that their respective qualities contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The top housing of the switch has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Therefore, although the specific materials differ, both switches aim to enhance the user's typing experience by providing distinct sound profiles. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller tone (offered by the Limes' nylon housing) or a brighter and resonant sound (achieved by the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing), both switches offer similar results in terms of improving the auditory feedback while typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it becomes clear that there are significant differences between them. The Lime has a relatively light actuation force of 35 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Lime requires 45 grams of force, providing a moderate level of resistance. On the other hand, the Tangerine's actuation force is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare it with the Lime. However, the Tangerine does have a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Therefore, if weight is a crucial factor, the Lime is the lighter option, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the contrary, the Tangerine is the heavier option, providing a more robust and tactile typing experience. Overall, the Lime offers a lighter touch, while the Tangerine provides a more substantial feel, with their respective bottom out forces catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lime has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Tangerine. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, providing a balanced depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.3 mm is slightly shallower, which is preferred by gamers who value faster response times. Choosing the shorter travel distance option, like the Lime, can result in a more responsive typing experience. However, for those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing the keys, the Tangerine with its longer travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40, whereas the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30.
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 neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes including home and work. Additionally, it is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to other mechanical switches. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch offers a high-pitched sound when pressed, resulting in a sharp and crisp sound. This may be preferable for those who enjoy a more distinct and vibrant sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of its characteristics, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, it is described as feathery, meaning it requires little exertion from the fingers and reduces finger fatigue. The light actuation force of the switch makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Moreover, it is described as subtle, with a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Furthermore, the Lime switch is referred to as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch offers a frictionless typing experience. It is extremely smooth and effortless, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. This results in a fluid travel and a buttery keystroke experience. Like the Lime switch, the Tangerine switch is also referred to as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lime tactile switch stands out for its lightweight nature, approachable tactility, and silenced operation. It offers a neutral and muted sound profile, a mild and feathery typing experience, and a polished finish. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch provides a next-level typing experience with its incredibly smooth feel, high-pitched sound profile, and polished finish. While the Lime switch prioritizes a light typing experience with a touch of tactility, the Tangerine switch emphasizes a smooth and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but they deliver similar results in terms of a polished feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a tactile keyboard enthusiast seeking a light and silent typing experience, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its feather-light bottom out force of 45 grams and its approachable tactility, these switches provide a unique and comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Lime switches are known for their muted sound profile, making them suitable for both home and work environments.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and pleasurable typing experience, the TKC Tangerine linear switch would be perfect for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches offer a satisfying keypress that feels frictionless and buttery. The use of UHWMPE housings further enhances the smoothness of each keystroke, resulting in an enjoyable typing experience. However, it is important to note that the Tangerine switches produce a high-pitched clack when typing on them, which may not be to everyone's preference.
Ultimately, when choosing between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you should consider your personal preferences for typing experience. If you value lightness, tactility, and a muted sound profile, the Lime switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if smoothness, fluidity, and a touch of high-pitched sound appeal to you, the Tangerine switches would be the better choice. Regardless, both switches offer their own unique qualities that can enhance your typing satisfaction. In the end, it is all about finding the perfect switch that suits your individual preferences and typing style.
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