Outemu Lime vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Lime and the TTC Venus offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Lime is a tactile switch known for its lightweight feel, approachable tactility, and silent operation, making it ideal for those who enjoy a feathery typing experience with a gentle tactile feedback. In contrast, the TTC Venus is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative internal design, offering a smooth and nearly frictionless keystroke with a unique "Q-texture" resistance that adds an engaging touch to typing. While the Venus delivers rapid and effortless typing with a muted sound signature, the Lime provides a subtle and polished typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Lime and TTC Venus both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Lime utilizes a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a deeper, fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Venus uses a POM top housing, which produces a more muted sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While both materials offer a similar result in terms of sound depth, the Nylon housing of the Lime may provide a rounder sound compared to the POM housing of the Venus.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Lime's nylon bottom housing continues the trend of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. On the other hand, the Venus's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is more clear and resonant. The difference in bottom housing materials between the two switches can result in a noticeable variation in sound quality when bottoming out keys. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Venus may provide a crisper sound compared to the duller sound produced by the nylon bottom housing of the Lime.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the Outemu Lime and TTC Venus utilize different housing materials for the top and bottom, they ultimately aim to enhance the typing experience through unique sound profiles. Whether it be the deep and fuller sound of the Nylon housing in the Lime or the sharp and clear sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Venus, each switch offers a distinct auditory experience for users. It is important to consider how the combination of top and bottom housing materials work together to create the desired sound characteristics while typing and releasing keys.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is clear that the Lime is lighter in both aspects. The Lime's actuation force of 35 grams and bottom out force of 45 grams are lower than the Venus's actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 52 grams. This difference in weight between the two switches may appeal to different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lime switch, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel may find the Venus switch more suitable for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making the Venus the longer of the two. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance could be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a more abrupt feel may lean towards the Lime switch, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes might find the Venus switch more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance feels comfortable for typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 switch offers a muted and neutral experience, making it suitable for various purposes without disturbing noise levels. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch presents a low-pitched, muted, neutral sound profile with a subtle and subdued tone, adding a unique auditory dimension to each keystroke. Both switches aim to provide a quieter typing experience that is pleasant for any environment, with the Venus having a potentially richer sound profile due to its low-pitched characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime switch is known for its feathery and mild typing experience, offering a light actuation force for reduced finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the TTC Venus switch boasts a buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable and effortless typing sensation, with the Venus potentially providing a more uniform and seamless feel due to its unique internal configuration.
Overall, while the Outemu Lime and TTC Venus switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both excel in providing users with a typing experience that is lightweight, smooth, and engaging. Users who prefer a quieter, neutral sound profile may opt for the Lime switch, while those seeking a unique tactile sensation with a potentially richer sound may lean towards the Venus switch. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility and a muted sound profile, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a nearly frictionless glide, captivating "Q-texture", and a very light actuation promising rapid typing, then the TTC Venus linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light typing experience with light tactility or a smooth and engaging typing sensation with rapid actuation. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing style to make the best choice between these two unique switches.
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