Outemu Lime vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Outemu Lime and Gazzew U4 are both excellent mechanical keyboard switches, each with their own unique features and benefits. The Lime switches are renowned for their lightweight design, approachable tactility, and silent operation. These switches are perfect for tactile enthusiasts who value a feather-light typing experience with a subtle touch of tactility. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switches offer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump while also providing an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. With a sound profile that is whisper quiet, the U4 switches combine style with subtlety. Both switches offer a muted feel, but the Lime switches tend to be more neutral and mild, while the U4 switches have a slightly sharper and low-pitched tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preference.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Lime and the Gazzew U4 differ in terms of their housing materials. The Lime uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, while the U4 utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend for both components. The nylon housing of the Lime creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to its softness and ability to absorb sound. Similarly, the Gazzew blend of the U4 also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Therefore, both switches provide similar results in terms of their sound profiles.
However, when it comes to the physical feel of the switch, the housing materials play a crucial role. The bottom housing, made of nylon in the Lime and Gazzew blend in the U4, significantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. The different materials may offer distinct tactile experiences, with the nylon potentially providing a more subdued and rounded sensation, compared to the potentially richer and deeper feel of the Gazzew blend.
Conversely, the top housing material is more influential in determining the sound produced when releasing a key. The nylon top housing of the Lime and the Gazzew blend top housing in the U4 will both contribute to creating a satisfying sound when a key is let go. The softer nature of these materials aids in dampening any potential noise and producing a smoother release, resulting in a more enjoyable overall typing experience.
In summary, both the Outemu Lime and the Gazzew U4 offer similar sound profiles due to the softness of their respective housing materials. While the Lime utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, the U4 has its proprietary Gazzew blend in both components. The bottom housing material enhances the bottom-out sound and feel, potentially providing different tactile experiences between the switches. On the other hand, the top housing contributes to the sound when releasing a key, with both switches ensuring a satisfying and smooth release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that there are some notable differences between the two. The Lime switch has a relatively light actuation force of 35 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. Additionally, its bottom out force of 45 grams ensures a comfortable typing experience without applying excessive pressure. Conversely, the U4 switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams, providing a tactile feedback that requires a bit more force to register a keystroke. Furthermore, its bottom out force of 62 grams adds a substantial feel to typing, offering a more pronounced tactile experience.
Considering weight, both switches offer different options to cater to individual preferences. The Lime switch, with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces, is ideal for those seeking a lighter typing experience. This can be advantageous for extended typing sessions, such as in a work or gaming setting. On the other hand, the U4 switch, with its heavier forces, appeals to users who enjoy a more robust and satisfying keystroke. This can enhance the overall typing experience by providing a more substantial push feel.
In summary, while the Lime switch provides a lighter and more effortless typing experience with its 35-gram actuation force and 45-gram bottom out force, the U4 switch offers a slightly heavier and more tactile typing experience with its 43-gram actuation force and 62-gram bottom out force. Both switches provide unique benefits depending on individual preferences, ensuring that users can achieve a typing experience that suits their needs.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with the Lime being slightly shorter and the U4 being slightly longer. The Lime falls within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the U4 provides a slightly deeper feel for those who prefer a more hearty depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Lime offering a slightly shorter travel distance and the U4 providing a slightly longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Outemu Lime and Gazzew U4 switches are considered muted. This means they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The Lime switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, which makes it suitable for most purposes, whether for beginners or advanced users, at home or work. On the other hand, the U4 switch has a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
In terms of feel, the Lime switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience. It has a gentle resistance and light actuation force, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions and reducing finger fatigue. The switch has a subtle and polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. These qualities make it approachable for most users. On the other hand, the U4 switch is known for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. The tactile feedback is strong and crisp, providing a distinct sensation with each keypress.
Based on the available information, both the Lime and U4 switches offer unique and desirable qualities. The Lime switch provides a lightweight and approachable tactility, with a neutral sound profile and feathery typing experience. On the other hand, the U4 switch offers a sharp tactile bump and a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, with a whisper-quiet sound profile and high feedback intensity. While they differ in some aspects, they both deliver enjoyable tactile experiences and reduced noise levels. Therefore, if you are looking for similar results, either switch would be a good choice depending on your preference for specific characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a lightweight and silenced tactile switch with a gentle typing experience, the Outemu Lime switches would be the perfect choice for you. They have a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. The Lime switches are also known for their approachable tactility and muted sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more intense tactile feedback with a plush bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 tactile switches would be an excellent option. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, the U4 switches offer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. They also have a whisper-quiet sound profile and a low-pitched tone, providing a satisfying typing experience without disturbing others.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Lime and Gazzew U4 tactile switches depends on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile. Consider whether you prioritize a lightweight and silenced typing experience (Outemu Lime) or a more intense tactile feedback with a subtle sound (Gazzew U4). Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
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