Everglide Bamboo Green vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Outemu Maple Leaf mechanical keyboard switches, both are tactile switches that offer a unique typing experience. The Bamboo Green is recognized for its clacky sound signature and crisp, sparkling tactility, making it a popular choice for those seeking a tactile switch with a bit of character. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf does not have any specific standout characteristics noted, but may appeal to those looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
PBT
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Outemu Maple Leaf, it is evident that they both offer unique qualities to the overall switch experience. The Bamboo Green's PBT top and bottom housing provide a neutral sound profile that is neither sharp nor dull, while the Maple Leaf's nylon top and bottom housing contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. The Bamboo Green's PBT material may offer a more consistent and uniform typing experience, whereas the Maple Leaf's nylon material could result in a more rounded and muted sound.
Despite their differences, both the Bamboo Green and the Maple Leaf housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. The split qualities of the housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch can impact both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. The PBT material of the Bamboo Green may offer a more consistent typing experience throughout the keystroke, while the nylon material of the Maple Leaf could provide a more pronounced bottom-out sound with a rounder overall feel.
It is worth noting that while the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Outemu Maple Leaf housing materials differ in composition and sound profile, they both ultimately contribute to the overall typing experience of the switch. Whether one prefers the neutral sound profile of the PBT material in the Bamboo Green or the deeper sound of the nylon material in the Maple Leaf, both housing options offer unique characteristics that can enhance the tactile feedback and auditory experience of typing on a mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials may come down to personal preference and the desired sound and feel for the user.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch differ slightly, with the Bamboo Green being lighter in both aspects. The Bamboo Green has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium switch. In contrast, the Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Bamboo Green, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Maple Leaf. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a satisfying typing experience overall.
Travel distance
The Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Bamboo Green's 4.0mm travel distance is closer to the traditional distance, providing a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's 3.3 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, appealing to those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer a unique feel, with the Bamboo Green providing a deeper press and the Maple Leaf offering a quicker, shorter key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Bamboo Green has an MSRP of $9.67 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bamboo Green for $7.19.
The Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10 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 Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch is known for producing a high-pitched and resonant sound when pressed, giving a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have any known descriptors for its sound profile, so it is difficult to directly compare. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bamboo Green is described as having a stepped, accented, sharp, and polished feel. This means that it provides a tactile experience with two distinct stages, a medium level of tactility that is not overpowering, a strong and crisp tactile bump, and a smooth key travel due to possible factory lubing. In contrast, there is no available information on the feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch, making it challenging to compare the two directly.
Overall, it can be said that the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch offers a unique combination of sound characteristics and tactile feel that may appeal to those looking for a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch's qualities remain unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares to the Bamboo Green. With that said, it is important for newcomers to consider their personal preferences and desired typing experience when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a high-pitched and resonant sound with a stepped, accented, sharp, and polished tactile feel, then the Everglide Bamboo Green switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy bottom out force with a different sound and feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.