Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Outemu Lime and Dareu Violet Gold Pro mechanical keyboard switches both offer tactile typing experiences, but with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Lime switches are praised for their lightweight feel, approachable tactility, and silenced operation, making them a perfect choice for tactile enthusiasts who enjoy a feathery light typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches provide a medium tactility with a fairly light touch and a neutral sound signature, offering a balanced typing experience that may appeal to a wider range of users. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches differ in terms of the top housing material used. The Lime features a nylon top housing, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material is stiffer, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the nylon top housing of the Lime.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Outemu Lime and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches use nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs sound effectively. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing material. The Nylon bottom housing helps create a duller and rounder sound profile for both the Lime and the Violet Gold Pro switches.
Overall, the choice between a nylon top housing in the Outemu Lime and a polycarbonate top housing in the Dareu Violet Gold Pro will impact the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The Nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile. However, if RGB lighting is a priority, the polycarbonate top housing of the Violet Gold Pro may be more visually appealing due to its translucency. Ultimately, the differences in top housing material contribute to distinct sound characteristics between the two switches, offering users options based on their preference for sound profile and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, we can see that the Lime is lighter in both categories. The Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is heavier than the Lime, but the bottom out force is unknown. The weight of a switch is important because it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Lime, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, users who prefer a heavier push may lean towards the Violet Gold Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the Lime has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Violet Gold Pro has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Lime's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Violet Gold Pro's longer travel distance could provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
The Outemu Lime (V3) 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
When it comes to sound, both the Outemu Lime and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments. The Lime switch stands out with its muted sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience, while the Violet Gold Pro switch maintains a moderate sound level. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Lime switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience, making it ideal for users looking for a light and gentle keypress. The switch's polished finish enhances the overall smoothness of key travel, reducing friction for a sleek typing sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch provides a stepped tactile feel, offering a more subtle tactile bump compared to switches with a more pronounced feedback. This two-stage tactile sensation can be preferred by those looking for a mild and controlled typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Lime and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lime switch provides a softer and lighter typing experience with a muted sound, the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a balanced and stepped tactile feel with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for typing sensation and sound level. If you enjoy a lighter touch and a more muted sound, the Lime switch would be the ideal choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a medium tactility with a balanced typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro switch would be a great option. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying tactile feedback and smooth key travel for an enhanced typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a feathery light typing experience with silenced switches, the Lime is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a balanced tactile option with a medium tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro would be the better choice. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Lime and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches will depend on your personal typing style and sound preferences.
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