Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Maple Leaf stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The Crystal switch is a linear switch that offers a unique typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight. Typing on these switches provides a neutral sound profile, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch is a tactile switch with no specific standout feature mentioned. Tactile switches are known for providing feedback during typing, which can be beneficial for those who like a more pronounced keystroke feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and Outemu Maple Leaf switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Crystal utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the resonance of the switches. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a rounder tone compared to the polycarbonate housing of the Crystal switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Crystal and Maple Leaf switches differ in material, they both play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches. The top housing, made of polycarbonate in the Crystal switches and nylon in the Maple Leaf switches, influences the sound when a key is released, creating a distinct auditory experience for users. Conversely, the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, reflecting the qualities of the polycarbonate or nylon material. These differences in housing material allow for a varied typing experience between the two switch options.
In terms of aesthetics, the Outemu Crystal switches with their polycarbonate housings offer a translucent option that is ideal for RGB lighting effects. The clear polycarbonate top housing allows for light to shine through, creating a visually appealing keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switches with their nylon housings have a more classic look that may appeal to users looking for a different aesthetic. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound, feel, and appearance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Crystal is lighter while the Maple Leaf is heavier. The Crystal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light touch. In contrast, the Maple Leaf requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, leading to a medium-heavy feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Crystal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those seeking a more robust typing experience may opt for the heavier Maple Leaf. Both switches offer distinct levels of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Crystal switch provides a more traditional key press feel with its longer travel distance, while the Maple Leaf switch offers a slightly shallower press. Gamers, who value quicker response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Maple Leaf switch. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Crystal switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique benefits based on individual preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique typing experience with a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile. This distinctive acoustic signature sets these switches apart from others, providing a crisp and sharp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is praised for its polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. Unfortunately, there are no specific feel descriptors available for the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique chirpy and high-pitched sound profile along with a polished feel for a smooth typing experience, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch remain unknown. However, if both switches are made by the same manufacturer and share similar construction methods, you can likely expect similar results in terms of overall quality and performance. Ultimately, the best way to determine the right switch for you is to try them out yourself and see which one aligns best with your typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a unique linear typing experience and a neutral sound profile, the Crystal may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a tactile bump for added feedback, the Maple Leaf might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you prefer a smoother typing experience with reduced friction, like the Crystal, or a more tactile typing experience, like the Maple Leaf. Consider these factors to choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
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