Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and features. Two popular choices in the market are the Outemu Lime, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, a linear switch. While both switches offer an exceptional typing experience, they have distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
The Outemu Lime switches are renowned for their lightweight design and approachable tactility. These switches are perfect for tactile enthusiasts who crave a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility. What sets them apart is that they are also silenced, preventing any distracting noise while typing. The Lime switches provide a subtle, polished typing experience, making them ideal for users who value a refined feel.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches offer a different typing experience. With their polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, these switches provide a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. When using the Wuque Studio Onions, users will discover a crisp and responsive typing sensation. Additionally, these switches have a neutral sound profile, ensuring a serene typing environment.
However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the Wuque Studio WS Onion differ greatly. The Lime features a nylon top housing, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the WS Onion utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the WS Onion allows for RGB lighting, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon. This common housing material contributes to a similar sound profile between the two switches. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housings, both the Outemu Lime and the WS Onion share the advantage of providing a more robust sound experience.
When it comes to the impact on sound and feel, the different housing materials play a significant role. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both switches, affects the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press. This means that the qualities of the nylon housing, such as the deeper and fuller sound profile, will be most noticeable when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect varying sound experiences depending on whether they are pressing down or letting go of a key, largely influenced by the housing materials chosen for the switches.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Lime and the Wuque Studio WS Onion may have different housing materials, they each offer distinct advantages. The Lime's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the WS Onion's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting. However, both switches share the benefits of a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile during typing. Additionally, the different housing materials affect the sound and feel, with the bottom housing impacting the press and the top housing influencing the release of keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams, which is relatively light, while the actuation force of the WS Onion is unavailable. This means that if one prefers a lighter touch, the Lime switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, the Lime also has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is still relatively light compared to the WS Onion's 63.5 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. For those who enjoy a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience, the WS Onion would be the better option. It is important to note that if the actuation forces of the two switches are the same, one can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Overall, weight is a crucial aspect to consider, as a lighter switch allows for longer typing sessions, while a heavier switch provides a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
In terms of travel distance, there is a noticeable difference between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch. The Lime has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the WS Onion has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lime falls on the shorter side of the spectrum, which is preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the WS Onion offers a slightly deeper travel distance for those who prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press. Both options cater to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a deeper key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Lime switches offer a neutral and muted sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate and softer sound compared to regular mechanical switches, making them suitable for various environments such as home or work. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches also have a neutral sound profile, resulting in a similar sound experience. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a moderate sound profile, both the Lime and Onion switches will provide you with similar results.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime switches offer a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. With these switches, you can expect a gentle typing sensation, reduced finger fatigue, a comfortable feel for extended typing sessions, and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches provide a buttery and polished typing experience. This implies that you will enjoy a smooth, fluid, and effortless keystroke sensation, as well as reduced friction and smooth key travel. Therefore, both the Lime and Onion switches offer a satisfying and refined typing feel.
Considering all the available information, the Outemu Lime switches are best known for their lightweight, approachable tactility, and silenced operation. They provide a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility, making them perfect for tactile enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, a nylon bottom housing, and offer a deeply satisfying, crisp, and responsive typing feel. Additionally, they have a neutral sound profile. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Lime tactile switches and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switches offer slightly different characteristics, they share similarities in sound and feel. If you are seeking a switch with a moderate sound profile and a refined typing feel, both options will provide you with satisfactory results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a fan of lightweight switches with a touch of tactility and a feathery light typing experience, then the Outemu Lime tactile switch is the way to go. These switches are perfect for those who prefer a softer and quieter sound and want to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the Lime switch offers a mild and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you value a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp, responsive typing experience, then the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is a great choice. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force and provide a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. With a buttery and polished feel, the WS Onion switch offers a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a lightweight and silenced typing experience, go for the Lime switch. However, if you prefer a smooth and responsive typing feel, the WS Onion switch is the way to go. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired tactile feedback when making your choice.
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