Outemu Lime vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a unique and lightweight typing experience, the Outemu Lime switch may be the perfect choice for you. These switches are not only tactile, providing a satisfying feedback with each keystroke, but also feature a silencing mechanism for quieter operation. With a categorization that includes descriptors such as "feathery," "subtle," and "polished," it's clear that the Lime switches are designed to appeal to tactile fans seeking a smooth and lightweight typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a more subdued and noise-free working environment, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch might be your ideal pick. These linear switches are meticulously engineered to reduce switch noise and offer unparalleled responsiveness. Rather than relying on silicone dampeners like traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear switches provide a precision typing experience without the usual cushioned sensation. Categorized as "mild" and "subdued," these switches are tailored to deliver tranquility and precision in equal measure. However, let's now delve deeper into the specifics of each switch so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.
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
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This means that they share similar characteristics when it comes to sound profile and feel. Typing on either switch will elicit a deeper and fuller sound due to the nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound, resulting in a more pleasant typing experience. Additionally, the softer nature of nylon gives both switches a comfortable and cushioned feel when pressing down on the keys.
However, despite their similarities in housing materials, it is worth noting that the Outemu Lime and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear may still have slight differences in their overall sound and feel. This is because the properties of the bottom and top housings can affect the switch differently. While the bottom housing primarily contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of the two nylon housings in each switch may result in subtle variations in their overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lime and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear provide similar results due to their shared use of nylon for both top and bottom housings. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile, thanks to nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively. Additionally, the softer plastic of nylon gives these switches a comfortable feel when typing. However, slight variations may exist in the overall sound and feel of each switch, as the bottom and top housings can have different impacts on the typing experience. Nevertheless, users can expect a comparable typing experience from both switches due to their similar housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Lime has a relatively light actuation force of 35 grams, which means it requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Silent Linear is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare. However, the bottom out force of the WS Silent Linear is 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy. This indicates that the WS Silent Linear requires a bit more force to fully press down compared to the Lime.
Considerations of weight come into play when choosing a switch. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Lime would be a suitable choice, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel would likely prefer the WS Silent Linear, as its medium-heavy bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience.
While the actuation force of the WS Silent Linear is unknown, it should be noted that if its actuation force is similar to the Lime, then users can expect a similar feel when triggering keystrokes. However, the WS Silent Linear will still offer a heavier bottom out force, providing a different overall typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it can be observed that the Lime has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. In the realm of switch travel distances, both of these options fall within the range of the recently prevalent shorter travel distances. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience, the Lime tactile switch with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, it should be noted that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more satisfying typing sensation. In this case, the WS Silent Linear switch, with its slightly longer travel distance, would be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on personal preference and the 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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20.
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, both the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch have a similar description. They are both categorized as "neutral" switches, meaning they have a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes. Additionally, both switches are described as "muted," meaning they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches. However, the WS Silent Linear switch goes a step further and offers a "subdued" sound, which means it produces a more dampened and subtle sound when pressed. Overall, both switches promise a quieter typing experience, perfect for those who value a quieter workspace or shared environments.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a range of qualities. It is described as "mild," offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. Additionally, the Lime switch is described as "feathery," meaning it requires very little exertion from your fingers. This lightweight actuation force reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The switch also has a "subtle" resistance, maintaining a light typing feel and producing a non-resonant sound that is suitable for shared spaces. Lastly, the Lime switch is described as "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch is described simply as "mild." This suggests that it offers a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. While there is no further information on specific aspects of the switch's feel, the mild description implies that it should feel comfortable and approachable to most users.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer desirable qualities for different preferences. If you are looking for a tactile typing experience with a feathery light touch and a subtle sound, the Lime switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a focus on reducing noise and delivering responsiveness, the WS Silent Linear switch would be a great option. The Lime switch provides a unique combination of lightweight tactility and silence, while the WS Silent Linear switch maintains a neutral feel with reduced switch noise. Ultimately, both switches aim to enhance your typing experience with their distinct qualities, offering a range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a fan of light switches with a touch of tactility and want a feathery typing experience, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be a perfect choice for you. These switches are incredibly unique, lightweight, and feature a subtle tactility that enhances your typing experience. Additionally, the Lime switches are silenced, providing a quieter sound profile compared to regular switches. If you prioritize tranquility and precision in your office or work environment, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch would be an excellent option. These switches masterfully reduce switch noise through ingeniously designed stem railings, offering a typing experience that is devoid of the usual cushioned sensation. The WS Silent Linear switches provide unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out without the use of silicone dampeners. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. Ultimately, it comes down to your preference for either a lightweight and subtly tactile typing experience with the Lime switch or a quiet and precise typing experience with the WS Silent Linear switch.
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