TTC Brother vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it's clear that both have their own unique qualities that make them stand out in the mechanical keyboard world. The Brother's lightweight nature and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature make it a top favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts, providing a tactile experience that is both enjoyable and precise. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf offers a different experience with its tactile bump that strikes a balance between being present and subtle, perfect for those who prefer a more muted feedback. While the Brother is categorized as 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', the Maple Leaf does not have any specific categories listed. 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
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Brother features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile. In contrast, the Maple Leaf utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While the polycarbonate of the Brother offers a crisper sound suitable for RGB lighting, the nylon of the Maple Leaf provides a more mellow and rounded tone.
Both the Brother and the Maple Leaf switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of this classic switch housing material. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to harder plastics. Despite this similarity in bottom housing material, the distinct differences in their top housings lead to variations in the overall sound produced by the switches. The combination of the top and bottom housing materials influences the tactile feedback and sound experience of typing on each switch.
In summary, the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches play a crucial role in shaping their sound profiles. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Brother creates a sharper and more resonant sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf produces a deeper and fuller tone. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a consistent and rounded sound profile. Understanding the impact of these housing materials on the sound and tactile feedback of each switch can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unknown, while the Maple Leaf switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. The lighter actuation force of the Brother switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Maple Leaf switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the Brother has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5mm compared to the Maple Leaf's 3.3mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of traditional travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance for quick key presses. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Brother switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch stands out with its signature crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This auditory experience is a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts, offering a clear and precise click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the tactile bump in the Brother switch is described as stepped, providing a distinct yet gentle feedback that enhances typing accuracy. As for the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the specific tactile feel is not mentioned, making it challenging to contrast with the detailed description of the Brother switch.
Taking all the available information into account, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in both sound and feel aspects, offering a satisfyingly crunchy sound and an easy-to-press, stepped tactile feel. While the sound profile and tactile feedback of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch remain unknown, it is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between the two. Ultimately, both switches may provide a similar level of satisfaction depending on the user's specific preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lightweight, easy-to-press switch with a satisfyingly crunchy sound and a perfect balance of tactile feedback, the Brother clicky switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more traditional tactile typing experience, the Maple Leaf tactile switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a light and crisp typing experience or a medium-heavy tactile feedback, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
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