Gateron CM vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and Outemu Maple Leaf offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Gateron CM is a linear switch that stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a rich, deep sound signature unlike conventional polycarbonate housings. With an impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer a smooth typing experience that feels like gliding with each keystroke. The extended, dual-staged spring in the CMs also ensures a bouncy typing sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf is a tactile switch with no known standout features mentioned. While the Gateron CM is described as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', the Maple Leaf remains uncharacterized. Depending on whether you prioritize smoothness and deep sound or tactile feedback, each switch caters to a different typing experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and Outemu Maple Leaf both feature nylon top and bottom housing materials, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and overall feel.
While both switches utilize nylon housing materials, the Gateron CM and Outemu Maple Leaf may differ in the specific design and construction of their housings. This could potentially impact the sound and feel of typing on each switch. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, any variations in the design or material composition of the housing between the two switches could result in subtle differences in typing experience.
Overall, the use of nylon housing in both the Gateron CM and Outemu Maple Leaf switches highlights the importance of material selection in determining the sound and feel of mechanical switches. Whether they are made by different manufacturers or have slight design variations, the nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of these switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and any subtle differences in sound and feel that may be present.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, both have an actuation force of 55 grams, making them equal in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, the CM has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Maple Leaf has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making the Maple Leaf slightly heavier when pressing all the way down. The CM switch provides a lighter typing experience overall, which may be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions where endurance is key. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the CM has a longer travel distance of 3.6mm compared to the Maple Leaf's 3.3mm. Both fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference between the two may not be noticeable to all users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the CM switch may be more suitable. Those who enjoy a more abrupt and quicker key press may lean towards the Maple Leaf switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two may come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 Gateron CM linear switch is praised for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch in terms of sound is not available at this time. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction and a fluid key travel. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is not currently accessible. Both switches offer similar characteristics in terms of feel, providing a luxurious typing experience that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its exceptional sound quality, featuring a full nylon housing for a richer and deeper sound signature, along with an impeccable factory lube job that ensures a smooth typing journey. Its bouncy typing experience, thanks to the lengthened dual-staged spring, adds an extra layer of enjoyment for users. While information on the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch may be limited at this time, both switches promise a premium typing experience with their respective sound and feel characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you value a smoother typing experience with a bouncy feel and a rich, deep sound profile, the CM switch with its nylon housing and factory lubrication may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Maple Leaf switch could be more suitable. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so make sure to test them out yourself to see which one suits your typing needs the most.
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