HMX Gravel vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and intended use. The HMX Gravel, a linear switch, shines in providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize swift keystrokes and a seamless feel while gaming or typing for extended periods. With a medium-light actuation force, the Gravel allows for a responsive and effortless action, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a fluid typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf is classified as a tactile switch, delivering a noticeable bump on actuation that offers tactile feedback, perfect for typists who enjoy a more pronounced response with each keystroke. This can enhance typing accuracy and provide a satisfying engagement with every press. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches, the differences in their sound profiles can be primarily attributed to the top housing material. The Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and transparency. This creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that resonates clearly, especially with RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and more absorbent of sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The contrasting properties of polycarbonate and nylon thus lead to distinct sound dynamics for each switch, influencing how users perceive keystrokes differently based on the materials used.
Turning to the bottom housings, both the HMX Gravel and Outemu Maple Leaf utilize nylon, which contributes to a more uniform depth of sound across both switches. Nylon's relatable softness allows it to effectively absorb sound, ensuring not just a duller and rounder auditory experience overall, but also maintaining a cohesive feel and sound profile when the key bottoms out. This shared material in the bottom housing means that both switches, despite their differences in top housing, will have a fuller sound at bottom-out that promotes comfort during typing. As such, the bottom sounds, while consistent in their softness, will serve to complement the unique qualities brought forth by the differing top materials.
In summary, while the HMX Gravel and Outemu Maple Leaf switches present noticeable variances in sound due to their top housing materials, they find common ground with their nylon bottom housing. The crispness and clarity provided by the polycarbonate top of the Gravel create a lively sound when releasing the key, whereas the Maple Leaf's nylon top enhances the roundedness of the sound character. However, both switches will deliver satisfying results across their bottom-out experience due to the nylon's intrinsic sound-absorbing properties. Consequently, while users may find two distinct auditory profiles upon key engagement, the overall sensation of weight and depth achieved from the nylon bottom housing ensures users will enjoy a full-bodied sound experience with either option.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Gravel switch features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer longer typing sessions or require a lighter touch for gaming. In contrast, the Maple Leaf switch employs a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to users who seek a more substantial feel during their typing experience. Therefore, users who favor a lighter switch for extended use should opt for the HMX Gravel, while those who appreciate a firmer resistance might prefer the Outemu Maple Leaf. Overall, the HMX Gravel is the lighter option, whereas the Outemu Maple Leaf is the heavier one, providing distinct choices to accommodate different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the Gravel exhibits a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Maple Leaf's 3.3 mm. This difference signifies a preference in tactile feedback; gamers who seek rapid response times may favor the shorter Maple Leaf, while those who appreciate a more substantial depth in key presses might lean towards the Gravel. Ultimately, the Gravel's longer travel distance provides a more pronounced bottoming out sensation, which could appeal to users who prefer a more robust typing experience, while the Maple Leaf might feel quicker and more responsive for those accustomed to shallow switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Gravel linear switch is characterized by its inherent quietness, providing a muted and unobtrusive experience during typing. This can be particularly appealing for those in shared or quiet environments, as the sound produced is soft and unobtrusive. Meanwhile, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown; without specifics on its auditory qualities, it’s difficult to draw direct comparisons. However, combining various elements such as the keycap material and keyboard construction can influence sound profiles significantly, so users can experiment to achieve their preferred auditory feedback.
When it comes to the feel, the HMX Gravel switch is renowned for its exceptional smoothness and a medium-light actuation force that invites users into a responsive and effortless typing experience. Typists often enjoy this lighter touch, making it ideal for long hours of writing or gaming. The tactile feedback of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is not detailed here, leading to an absence of comparative data. Depending on its design, it could offer a firmer or less refined feel, but without specifics, that remains speculative.
In summary, the HMX Gravel linear switch stands out for its smoothness, lighter actuation force, and quiet sound profile, making it an excellent option for those seeking a refined typing experience. The qualities of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch are more ambiguous, particularly in sound and feel. When selecting between these two options, users should consider their preferences for sound and tactile feedback while remembering that many factors, like board and keycap choice, can affect potential outcomes. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to personal typing preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a smooth, effortless typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the Gravel could be your best option. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it an excellent choice for long typing sessions, particularly if you favor speed and fluidity in your keystrokes. This switch is particularly appealing for those who enjoy gaming or fast-paced typing, as it can help reduce fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback with a stronger resistance, the Maple Leaf may be the better fit for you. With a 65-gram actuation force, it can offer a satisfying bump that provides a sense of engagement with each keystroke, which many typists appreciate for greater accuracy. This switch is ideal for users who revel in a more traditional typing feel and may even help in reducing accidental key presses. Ultimately, understanding your typing style and the type of feedback you enjoy will guide you in selecting the switch that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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