HMX Hibiscus vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Maple Leaf represent two distinct philosophies in design and user experience. The Hibiscus, a linear switch, is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and lightweight actuation force, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a seamless typing experience and quick keystrokes. Its satisfyingly clacky and crispy sound adds an engaging auditory dimension, perfect for typists and gamers alike who enjoy a bit of feedback without the resistance of a tactile bump. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf, characterized as a tactile switch, provides a pronounced tactile feedback that many users find comforting and reassuring while typing. This switch is typically favored by those who appreciate a more traditional feel, enhancing typing accuracy and satisfaction with each keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences; the Hibiscus speaks to speed and ease, while the Maple Leaf emphasizes the joy of tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Maple Leaf both utilize nylon as their housing material, which affords them unique sound profiles while also promoting durability. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This shared material characteristic ensures that the switches will produce a similar auditory experience, as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller yet rounder acoustic profile. This sound dampening attribute is a significant advantage for users who prefer quieter typing environments, allowing both the Hibiscus and Maple Leaf to cater to a similar demographic of users.
While both switches feature nylon in their construction, the impact of each housing type—the top and bottom—remains significant. In the case of the Hibiscus and the Maple Leaf, the uniformity of the nylon material across both the top and bottom housing creates a coherent sound interaction when the keys are pressed. However, should there be a variation in the types of plastics used in other models, the sound characteristics experienced during bottoming out would differ. For instance, if one housing were made of a harder plastic, it would produce a sharper sound when pressed down compared to the softer nylon. Nevertheless, since both the Hibiscus and the Maple Leaf are constructed from nylon throughout, their performance in both sound and feel remains aligned.
Ultimately, the similarity in materials used in the HMX Hibiscus and Outemu Maple Leaf not only speaks to a shared auditory experience but also to the tactile feel that users can expect when engaging with these switches. With the nylon making up both housings, users will likely experience a consistent typing feel that is characterized by the softer touch that nylon provides. Whether typing quickly or gradually releasing keys, the switches will create a balance of sound and tactile feedback that highlights the advantages of nylon's acoustic properties. Therefore, anyone using these switches can expect a harmonious typing experience, rooted in the unique qualities of nylon without the interference of contrasting materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Hibiscus features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, categorizing it as a lighter option, which is ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Maple Leaf switch exhibits a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This heavier resistance can provide users with a more substantial typing experience, making it better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, while the Hibiscus offers a gentler touch suitable for prolonged use, the Maple Leaf appeals to users seeking a firmer feedback with each keystroke. Thus, if you prefer a lighter setup, the Hibiscus would be the way to go, while those desiring a heftier option should consider the Maple Leaf.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the Hibiscus features a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Maple Leaf has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference reflects the preferences of different users; gamers might gravitate towards the Maple Leaf for its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker key presses and faster response times. In contrast, the Hibiscus with its greater travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback, as it provides a deeper pressing experience. Therefore, if you're looking for responsiveness, the Maple Leaf would be the better choice, whereas the Hibiscus may be preferable for users who appreciate a more substantial key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus 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 HMX Hibiscus linear switch is renowned for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. This unique audio characteristic adds an engaging element to the typing experience, making each keystroke feel lively and pronounced. The sound produced by switches can be influenced by various external factors, including the choice of keyboard case and keycaps, but the Hibiscus successfully stands out with an unmistakable acoustic quality that enhances its overall appeal. In contrast, no specific sound qualities are attributed to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, leaving its auditory profile undisclosed. Therefore, while the Hibiscus offers a distinctive sound that contributes to a more enjoyable typing experience, the Maple Leaf remains an enigma in this regard.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch boasts unparalleled smoothness, providing an exceedingly pleasant typing experience that many enthusiasts cherish. This ultra-light actuation force allows for effortless typing, making it particularly appealing to users seeking a relaxed and fluid action with minimal resistance. In comparison, the feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is not explicitly defined, meaning it may not deliver the same level of refinement or satisfaction in terms of smoothness or resistance. Users familiar with tactile switches might find themselves guessing how the Maple Leaf feels in practice, but without concrete details, a side-by-side comparison remains difficult.
In summary, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch clearly shines with its distinct sound profile and unparalleled smoothness, making it a strong choice for those prioritizing both auditory and tactile satisfaction. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch lacks defined qualities in both sound and feel, which may leave potential users wanting more information. For those who prioritize a smooth and engaging typing experience, the Hibiscus is the go-to option. However, without additional data on the Maple Leaf, determining its fit for a user's preferences may require hands-on testing.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch should reflect your individual preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Hibiscus is your go-to option. Its ultra-light actuation force of 48 grams makes it ideal for long typing sessions where speed and comfort are essential, and the crisp sound adds an enjoyable auditory feedback to your experience. This switch is particularly suited for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks where quick and fluid keystrokes are necessary. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback that enhances your typing attempts and aids in typing accuracy, the Maple Leaf switch, with its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, would be a better fit. This switch offers a satisfying resistance that can make each keystroke feel more deliberate, making it favorable for those who enjoy typing on tactile switches for both work and leisure. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prefer the light, smooth feel of the Hibiscus or the tactile and slightly heavier feedback of the Maple Leaf.
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