Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Lime and the Durock White Lotus. The Lime switches are well-known for their unique qualities, including being lightweight, having an approachable tactility, and being silenced. These switches are perfect for tactile enthusiasts who desire a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches offer a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Additionally, these switches feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects, adding a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the Durock White Lotus switches differ in terms of their composition and feel. The Lime's nylon top housing is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the White Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which offers a unique and premium feel. While the exact sound characteristics are not mentioned, it can be inferred that this material may provide a different typing experience compared to the Lime.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Lime and the White Lotus utilize nylon material. This classic switch housing material enhances the sound profile of both switches, eliciting a deeper and fuller sound while typing. The softness and sound absorption properties of nylon contribute to a more subdued and round sound. Therefore, in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches are likely to provide similar results due to the common use of nylon in their bottom housings.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Lime and White Lotus switches differ, the qualities of each housing material have a specific impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing material will dominate, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing material will have a stronger influence on the sound produced. Therefore, users can expect variations in the tactile feedback and auditory experience based on these factors. However, without specific information regarding the sound characteristics of the White Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, it remains uncertain how it exactly differs from the Lime's nylon top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are notable differences between the two. The Lime switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, offering a more delicate and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, providing a slightly more substantial keystroke feel.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Lime would be the ideal choice as its actuation and bottom out forces are relatively lower. This lighter weight allows for more extended periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for use during work or long gaming sessions. However, if a user prefers a more solid and pronounced typing experience with a bit more resistance, the White Lotus switch would be a better fit. Its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial push, giving a satisfying tactile feedback.
While the forces vary between the two switches, both can deliver similar results depending on the user's preference and typing style. It ultimately comes down to personal preference - those who enjoy a lighter touch may find the Lime switch to be their favored option, while users who appreciate a bit more resistance and feedback may lean towards the White Lotus switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lime offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who value fast response times. On the other hand, the White Lotus provides a longer travel distance, which some individuals may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference. However, it is worth mentioning that both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Lime being on the shallower side and the White Lotus closer to the standard 4.0 mm. Therefore, regardless of the choice made, both switches will likely provide similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 comparing the subjective qualities of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, the sound profiles differ slightly. The Lime switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate volume and is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Additionally, it is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch provides a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Like the Lime, it also has a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various purposes. However, it's important to consider that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Lime switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience. It falls within a safe and middle-ground zone, providing a gentle resistance without being too pronounced. This switch is also described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It has a subtle resistance, ensuring a comfortable typing feel without creating a resonant sound, making it suitable for shared spaces. Furthermore, the Lime switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, adding to its sleek typing experience.
Similarly, the White Lotus switch offers an easy-to-press experience with a gentle resistance during key presses. It requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This switch falls within the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. Additionally, it has a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel without being featherlight. Similar to the Lime switch, the White Lotus has a subtle sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces.
Taking all the available information into account, it's clear that both the Outemu Lime and Durock White Lotus switches offer unique characteristics suited for different preferences. While the Lime switch provides a more lightweight and silenced experience, perfect for tactile fans looking for a feathery light typing experience, the White Lotus switch strikes a balance with its delicate tactility, making it ideal for work and extended typing sessions. We can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, with both switches falling within the neutral and subtle realm. Ultimately, the preference between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired level of tactility and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a lightweight switch with a touch of tactility and a feathery light typing experience, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is the way to go. These switches are perfect for tactile fans who prefer a light typing feel. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, they provide a gentle resistance and reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Moreover, the Lime switches are silenced, offering a muted sound profile that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
On the other hand, if you value a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance and want to add a captivating glow to your keyboard setup with RGB lighting effects, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is the ideal choice. With a bottom out force of 56 grams, these switches offer a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Lime switches. However, they still maintain a low-impact typing feel, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue. The White Lotus switches also have a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Lime and Durock White Lotus switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and aesthetics. Consider whether you prioritize a lighter typing feel with silenced switches or a delicate tactility with RGB lighting effects. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, making them excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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