Outemu Lime (V3) vs. HMX Vintage Citrus

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Outemu Lime and the HMX Vintage Citrus, each catering to distinct preferences and intended uses. The Outemu Lime switches offer a unique blend of lightweight design and mild tactility, making them an excellent choice for typists who appreciate a soft, muted experience without sacrificing feedback. Their silenced operation also ensures a quieter typing environment, appealing to both home and office users who seek a refined touch. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switches are engineered specifically for gamers, featuring an incredibly low actuation force of just 1mm that allows for rapid-fire inputs and an exhilarating, bright clacky sound profile. This smooth and responsive feel is perfect for those who prioritize speed and performance in gaming scenarios. Both switches have their distinctive advantages based on use case, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the right switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Lime (V3) Tactile

HMX Vintage Citrus Linear

$3.40 per 10

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the Outemu Lime and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches, it becomes evident that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material signifies a shared characteristic that primarily focuses on creating a unique typing experience. Nylon’s soft and pliable nature allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, underscoring the tactile and auditory satisfaction users can expect from both switches. The ability of nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics ensures that the auditory output is not only rounder but also less harsh, offering a pleasant and engaging environment for users, regardless of the specific model.

Despite the identical use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings, the potential differentiation in key feel and sound profile can still be nuanced. While both switches promise a muted and rounded auditory experience, individual users might perceive slight differences in typing feedback. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound and sensation experienced when releasing a key. Therefore, although they share the same material composition, the interaction between the two housings could yield a unique tactile experience in practice, leading to slightly different preferences among users.

Ultimately, the usage of nylon in both the Outemu Lime and the HMX Vintage Citrus establishes a foundation for consistent performance characteristics, particularly in sound profile and key feedback. Users who choose either switch will likely find that they have similar auditory and tactile preferences due to the shared material properties. However, those looking for a distinct typing feel may want to consider the specific design and engineering differences that might affect the overall experience despite the fundamental similarities in housing material. Through careful experimentation, one can uncover which switch best aligns with personal preferences, underscoring the importance of subjective experiences in evaluating keyboard switches.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Outemu Lime exhibits a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer effortless typing and longer gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus requires a heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. This distinction means that while the Lime is designed for light and comfortable usage, the Vintage Citrus provides a firmer resistance that may be favored by those who appreciate a more robust tactile feedback. Ultimately, if users are looking for a switch that ensures endurance during long periods of use, the Outemu Lime is the better option due to its lighter forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, it is clear that the Lime has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Vintage Citrus measures at 3 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm makes the Lime a better choice for users who prefer a more substantial depth in their key presses, offering a heartier feel. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Vintage Citrus caters to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, as shorter switches often facilitate faster keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference—those looking for a more abrupt and responsive experience may lean towards the Vintage Citrus, while those who appreciate deeper key presses might find the Outemu Lime more suitable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Lime tactile switch boasts a notably muted and neutral profile. This means it produces a softer, quieter sound than more traditional or clacky switches, making it suitable for environments where noise might be a concern, such as offices or shared workspaces. Its balanced sound profile ensures that it won’t be disruptive during general use, appealing to a wide range of users from beginners to seasoned typists. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch is recognized for its bright, clacky sound, perfectly tailored for gamers seeking auditory feedback during rapid key presses. This pronounced sound profile can enhance the gaming experience, making it feel more immersive, although it may not be ideal for quieter settings.

In terms of feel, the Lime switch stands out with its feathery lightness and mild tactility, making it exceptionally gentle on the fingers. The combination of a low actuation force and subtle resistance allows for comfortable typing sessions that reduce finger fatigue, which is beneficial for extended activities like gaming or writing. Moreover, the polished nature of the Lime contributes to a smooth and refined keypress, making every stroke effortless. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch is designed with a focus on speed and responsiveness, featuring an incredibly low actuation point of just 1mm. This swift actuation creates a smooth push feel, facilitating quick inputs that are particularly advantageous in fast-paced gaming scenarios.

Overall, both the Outemu Lime and HMX Vintage Citrus switches cater to distinct preferences in the mechanical keyboard landscape. The Lime excels in offering a soft, muted sound with a lightweight and gentle typing experience, making it perfect for those valuing a tactile feel without excess noise. Meanwhile, the Vintage Citrus caters to gamers who prioritize rapid response and a more auditory experience. Choosing between them will ultimately depend on the user’s specific needs—whether the focus is on a quieter, more ergonomic typing experience or quick, loud inputs tailored toward gaming. Both switches deliver an experience that caters to their intended audiences perfectly, ensuring that regardless of your choice, you’ll find satisfaction in each.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch should be influenced by your specific typing needs and preferences. If you prioritize a light and tactile experience that minimizes sound, the Lime is an excellent option. Its lighter actuation force makes it ideal for extended sessions of typing or gaming, reducing finger fatigue while providing a subtle tactile bump that enhances your typing feel without being overwhelming. The muted sound profile and mild pressure requirement also make it suitable for shared workspaces or quieter environments. On the other hand, if your focus is on gaming and you prefer a smooth, responsive switch that supports rapid input with a satisfying clack, the Vintage Citrus will serve you well. Its medium-light bottom-out force strikes a balance that offers both support and responsiveness, while the quick actuation distance ensures that you're always ready to react in fast-paced gaming scenarios. In essence, your decision should align with whether you value a quiet, tactile feedback or a quick and audibly satisfying keypress.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Lime (V3) Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more

HMX Vintage Citrus Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn more