Outemu Lime vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and Wuque Studio WS Red are two popular options that offer distinct qualities. The Lime switches are well-known for being lightweight, offering an approachable level of tactility, and being silenced, making them perfect for tactile enthusiasts who prefer a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. On the other hand, the WS Red switches boast a 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience while maintaining a classic sound signature. These switches have a heavier actuation force, adding a satisfying weight to each keystroke, resulting in a substantial typing feel. While these general pointers give a glimpse into what each switch has to offer, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond the generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches are both made of nylon, which is a classic switch housing material. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
However, it's worth noting that if the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, the qualities of the housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when you release a key.
Despite having the same housing material, the Lime and WS Red switches may still produce slightly different results due to potential variations in design and manufacturing processes. The overall sound profile and typing experience might have subtle differences, but the use of nylon as the housing material ensures that both switches will provide a similar level of depth, fullness, and sound absorption.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams, providing a light and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Red is unavailable, making it difficult to determine if it is lighter or heavier than the Lime. However, the bottom out force of the WS Red is 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy switch. This heavier force may be preferred by users who desire a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lime make it suitable for those who prefer a lighter switch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. While the force measurements for the WS Red are not available, it is likely to provide a heavier typing feel compared to the Lime. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, with some favoring the lightness of the Lime and others opting for the heavier feel of the WS Red.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Lime has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the WS Red has a longer distance that the switch travels from the top to the bottom compared to the Lime.
In terms of preference, gamers who prioritize faster response times often prefer shorter travel distances, making the Lime a favorable option for them. The 3.3 mm travel distance of the Lime allows for quicker keystrokes, enabling gamers to react swiftly during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more hearty depth in their keystrokes or find shorter travel distances too abrupt may find the WS Red more suitable due to its longer 3.8 mm travel distance.
It is important to note that both switches deviate from the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, which is considered the most common. However, as shorter travel distances are becoming more prevalent, individuals seeking increased responsiveness may opt for the shorter option, such as the Lime. Ultimately, the choice between the Lime and WS Red depends on individual preferences regarding travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Red comes in at $3.50.
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 have a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use them at home or work. Additionally, the Lime switches are muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. This makes them well-suited for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, information about the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Red switches is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime switches offer a mild and approachable typing experience. They provide a gentle resistance that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making them comfortable for most users. The Lime switches are also described as feathery, meaning they are exceptionally light to press and require minimal effort from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue, making them suitable for extended typing sessions, including gaming, school, or work purposes. In addition, the Lime switches have a subtle and polished feel, with a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and/or factory lubrication, reducing friction and enabling smooth key travel. The information regarding the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Red switches is unknown, therefore a direct comparison cannot be made.
Considering the available information, the Outemu Lime tactile switches and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches have distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Lime switches are best known for their lightweight and silenced design, offering an approachable tactility and a gentle typing experience. They have a muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter keystrokes. In contrast, the WS Red switches feature a double-stage spring for a bouncy and responsive typing experience, along with a familiar sound signature due to their classic material blend. The actuation force of the WS Red switches is heavier, providing a satisfying and substantial typing feel. While the Lime switches are well-suited for tactile fans who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Red switches are more suitable for those who prefer a bit of weight to their keystrokes and enjoy a more traditional sound. However, without information about the sound and feel of the WS Red switches, it is challenging to make a direct comparison. Therefore, it is recommended to try both switches if possible, or consider the specific needs and preferences of the individual user to make an informed choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and requirements. If you are a fan of lightweight switches with a touch of tactility and prefer a feathery light typing experience, the Lime switches would be the ideal choice for you. These switches are also silenced, making them perfect for quieter environments. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force that adds a substantial feel to each keystroke, the WS Red switches would suit you better. These switches retain a familiar sound signature and offer a satisfying weight to your typing. Ultimately, it's important to consider both the sound and feel of the switches to determine which one aligns with your preferences and typing style.
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