Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Lime

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Lime. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. This switch offers a satisfyingly smooth experience, accompanied by a crispy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime is a tactile switch that stands out for its unique characteristics. These switches are lightweight, offer an approachable tactility, and are silenced for a quieter typing experience. With their feathery light feel and a touch of tactility, the Lime switches are perfect for tactile enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

Outemu Lime Tactile

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Lime switches have both similarities and differences. In terms of top housing, the INK blend used in the Gateron Ink Red is known for its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying and clacky sound when typing. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Outemu Lime provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. While both materials contribute to a distinct sound, the Ink Red's top housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the Lime's nylon top housing.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Red's proprietary INK blend provides a similar sound profile as its top housing. It offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched clacky sound when pressed down. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Lime also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, just like its top housing. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out. Both switches share the characteristic of producing a satisfying sound, but the Ink Red's bottom housing may have a slightly sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the Lime's nylon bottom housing.

When it comes to overall feel and sound, the top and bottom housings play different roles in each switch. The qualities of the bottom housing influence the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing has a stronger impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, pressing down on the Gateron Ink Red will provide a distinctive feel and bottom-out sound influenced by its proprietary INK blend bottom housing, while the Outemu Lime's nylon bottom housing will contribute to a different bottom-out sound and feel. However, both switches will have similar characteristics in terms of the sound produced when releasing a key, as this is primarily influenced by the top housing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is evident that they both offer different weight options. The Ink Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Lime's lighter actuation force of 35 grams. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ink Red requires a force of 60 grams while the Lime only requires 45 grams.

The weight of a switch is an important consideration for users for various reasons. Those who prefer a lighter feel opt for switches with lower actuation and bottom out forces as this allows them to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. This is particularly useful for users who bring their keyboard to work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel. These users are more inclined to select switches with heavier forces.

While the Ink Red and Lime offer different weight options, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on the user's preference. In this case, individuals looking for a lighter experience can opt for the Lime switch, as it offers a lower actuation and bottom out force, allowing for longer typing sessions without strain. Conversely, those seeking a slightly heavier feel and a more substantial typing experience might find the Ink Red switch more suitable due to its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Lime switch shorter in terms of travel distance. The Ink Red falls into the more traditional range of 4.0 mm, while the Lime is on the shallower side with 3.3 mm.

Gamers tend to favor shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Lime switch a possible choice for them. The reduced travel distance allows for quicker key presses and response in gaming situations. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, lacking the depth they desire in their typing experience. For these individuals, the Ink Red switch with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback.

In summary, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch differ in their travel distances. Depending on preferences and specific needs, the shorter distance of the Lime switch can offer a faster response time, while the longer distance of the Ink Red switch may provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Lime have a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, the Ink Red has a unique chirpy sound, adding a little squeak to the typing experience, which sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Lime switches are described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both the Ink Red and the Lime have mild characteristics. A mild switch provides a gentler typing experience that is approachable to most users. They offer a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that enhances the typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch have their own unique qualities. The Ink Red is known for its lower actuation force, making it perfect for those with a lighter typing style. It offers a satisfyingly smooth feel, with a crispy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Lime switches are incredibly unique in that they are lightweight and offer an approachable tactility. They are silenced, producing a softer and quieter sound. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and are suitable for most intents and purposes. They also share qualities such as a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Overall, whether you choose the Gateron Ink Red or the Outemu Lime, you can expect a pleasant typing experience with similar results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter actuation force and a satisfyingly smooth typing experience, then the Gateron Ink Red is the switch for you. It is perfect for those with a lighter typing style and offers a crispy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that is lightweight and offers a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility, then the Outemu Lime switch is the better choice. It is also a silenced switch, making it perfect for tactile fans who want a quieter typing experience. Both switches have a moderate sound profile and a smooth typing feel, but the Lime switch has the added benefit of being exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Lime comes down to personal preference and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Lime Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more