Kailh Berry vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard users. The Berry switch offers a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture, providing a deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch does not have a specific standout feature but is known for its tactile feedback. Those who prefer a more responsive typing experience may lean towards the Maple Leaf switch. 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Maple Leaf, one noticeable difference is in the top housing. The Berry uses a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf utilizes a softer nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. While the Berry's polycarbonate top housing is more likely to be used for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Berry and the Maple Leaf use nylon for this component. This material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches ensures that the typing experience is consistent in terms of sound production and tactile feedback.
In terms of overall performance, the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Maple Leaf affect the sound profile and feel of typing in different ways. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows each component to contribute distinct qualities to the typing experience. The top housing influences the sound when pressing and letting go of a key, while the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Berry may offer a sharper and crisper sound profile, the nylon top and bottom housings of the Maple Leaf provide a deeper and fuller typing experience.
Weight
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch have different actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Kailh Berry has no specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, also medium-heavy. In terms of weight, the Outemu Maple Leaf is lighter than the Kailh Berry. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Outemu Maple Leaf may be the better option. However, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Kailh Berry may be preferred. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with consistent feedback and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Kailh Berry switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf switch. The Berry switch may provide a slightly deeper key press feel compared to the Maple Leaf switch. However, both switches still fall within the category of shorter travel distances, making them suitable options for those looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10.
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 comparing the sound profile of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the Berry offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, resulting in a deep and mellow sound during key presses. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Maple Leaf switch is not available. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the typing feel, the Berry switch is known for its textured feel, providing users with a springy and chalk-like typing experience. This tactile feedback may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit of friction when pressing down on the keys. Unfortunately, details on the typing feel of the Maple Leaf switch are not provided. It is essential to consider personal preference when selecting a switch based on typing feel, as some users may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a deep and rich sound profile with a textured typing feel, the available information on the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is limited. It is important to keep in mind that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the best switch for each user. If the sound and feel qualities of the Berry switch align with your preferences, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of typing experience. However, further research or hands-on experience may be necessary to determine if the Maple Leaf switch is a suitable option for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a springy feel with a chalk-like texture and a deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with no specific sound or feel descriptions, the Maple Leaf switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your personal preference for typing feel and sound will determine which switch is the best fit for you.
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