Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Outemu Maple Leaf

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Outemu Maple Leaf provide distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences. The Gateron Glory Yellow, known for its heavier actuation, is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke and a satisfying travel distance, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf features a tactile response, allowing users to feel a noticeable bump at the actuation point; this feedback can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction for those who enjoy a more engaged typing sensation. While the Glory Yellow is perfect for users seeking an uninterrupted and fluid typing experience, the Maple Leaf is the go-to option for individuals who appreciate tactile feedback in their keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When evaluating the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches, one will notice notable similarities. Both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, a material recognized as classic in the realm of keyboard switches. The use of nylon contributes significantly to the sound profile produced when typing on these switches. Specifically, nylon is a softer plastic that dampens sound absorption compared to harder materials, facilitating a deeper and fuller acoustic experience. As such, users can expect that both switch models will generally produce a duller and rounder sound when actuated or bottomed out.

Moreover, since the top and bottom housings of both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Outemu Maple Leaf are constructed from the same nylon material, the acoustic and tactile results are likely to exhibit comparable characteristics. With both designs utilizing nylon throughout, the overall sound profile will be harmonious, with a consistent depth and fullness emanating from both the top and bottom during typing. This leads to a potentially consistent typing experience across both switches, as the housing materials and their absorption qualities lend themselves to a similar acoustic signature that users might find favorable.

However, there still remains a crucial aspect to consider: the impact of the housing materials on the overall feel and performance of each switch. While both the Glory Yellow and Maple Leaf share similar housing materials, the interplay between how these housings are constructed or tuned—such as design nuances or the internal components—can still lead to distinct typing experiences. For instance, while the nylon material might create a dampened sound, the configuration of the housings could influence the feel when bottoming out, leading to different tactile feedback or responsiveness between the two switch types. Thus, while users will experience like sounds, the fundamental typing feel might vary, offering a nuanced distinction in overall performance despite similar housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Glory Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, which indicates a lighter touch is required to register a keystroke, making it suitable for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Maple Leaf switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, resulting in a slightly heavier feel that may be favored by users seeking a more substantial typing experience. The bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unavailable, while the Maple Leaf switch features a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. Consequently, the Maple Leaf switch is overall heavier, appealing to those who prefer a firmer press, while the Glory Yellow's lighter actuation force could be ideal for long sessions of typing or gaming, where reduced finger fatigue is a priority. Thus, if someone seeks similar results to the Maple Leaf's heavier feel, they would need to consider switches with a higher actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Glory Yellow the longer travel option, providing a more pronounced key press that some users may prefer for a deeper and more linear feel. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm caters to those who favor quicker key presses, which can enhance responsiveness—an aspect appreciated by many gamers. Overall, if you prioritize a more substantial depth in your keystrokes, the Glory Yellow would be the better fit, whereas if you value rapid response and don’t mind a less pronounced travel, the Maple Leaf would suit your needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Glory Yellow switch produces a sound that is generally smooth and subdued, making it a good choice for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch's sound characteristics are less clearly defined, leaving an element of uncertainty regarding its auditory profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of any switch can be influenced by various factors, such as the keyboard construction and keycap material, meaning that users may find variations in sound regardless of the switch type.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Glory Yellow offers a satisfying and smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance, which translates into an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch does not have specific descriptors available, which makes it difficult to assess its tactile feedback thoroughly. Without detailed information, it remains unclear how the Maple Leaf compares in terms of the overall sensation during use.

In conclusion, for those looking for a smooth and quiet keystroke, the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch is a compelling option, providing a satisfying typing experience. The Outemu Maple Leaf's tactile qualities remain uncertain, which may or may not resonate with users who favor tactile feedback. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing between these switches, and trying them out in a suitable setup will yield the best understanding of their unique characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a smooth keystroke experience with a quick actuation and lighter touch, the Glory Yellow switch would be your best bet. This switch is highly suitable for fast typists and gamers who benefit from its low resistance and smooth travel, adding to the overall comfort during long sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer tactile feedback that lets you feel the actuation point, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch will likely resonate with you. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force offers a satisfying resistance that many typists find appealing, particularly for typing tasks that require more precision and inherent tactile feedback. Overall, your choice should align with your personal feel for a switch: go for the Glory Yellow for a fluid, uninterrupted experience, and opt for the Maple Leaf if tactile feedback is vital for your typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more