Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Maple Leaf. The Gateron Ink Yellow is a linear switch that offers a shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and clackiness, this switch is ideal for those who prefer a more neutral and polished feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf is a tactile switch, offering a different typing experience compared to the linear Ink Yellow. While not much information is available about its specific characteristics, tactile switches are known for providing feedback and a bump during actuation, catering to those who prefer a more tactile 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The INK blend top housing of the Gateron Ink Yellow produces a pointed and high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky, while the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile from their switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches also play a significant role in the overall sound profile of each switch. The INK blend bottom housing of the Gateron switch contributes to the satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Maple Leaf switch absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. These subtle differences in bottom housing materials can affect how each switch feels and sounds when pressed during typing or gaming sessions.
Although the Gateron Ink Yellow and Outemu Maple Leaf switches have different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to various preferences. While the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings create a sharp and clacky sound, the Maple Leaf's nylon top and bottom housings produce a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, but the difference in sound profiles allows users to choose a switch that best suits their personal preferences in terms of typing sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Ink Yellow requiring 67 grams and the Maple Leaf requiring 65 grams. This means that while the Ink Yellow may have a slightly heavier initial push, when bottoming out both switches provide a similar level of resistance. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Maple Leaf switch may be the better option due to its lighter actuation force. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel, the Ink Yellow switch would be the choice as it offers a slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and weight preference.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, we can see that the Ink Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Maple Leaf has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall into the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The slight difference of 0.2 mm between the two may not be noticeable to most users, but it could potentially affect the feel and response of the switches. Overall, the Ink Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Maple Leaf, but both switches offer similar results in terms of key travel and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 Ink Yellow linear switch is known for its neutral and clacky sound profile, offering a pleasant mix of moderate actuation force requirement and a sharp, snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, appealing to a wide range of users. However, the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is not specified. Both switches are designed to offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Gateron Ink Yellow may have a slight edge in terms of smoothness and refined feel.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is a solid choice for those seeking a balance between a laptop-like typing experience and a standard mechanical keyboard, with a smooth and clacky sound profile, as well as a mild and polished feel. While information on the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is limited, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel if they are looking for a switch with moderate actuation force and a moderate sound profile. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style should guide your decision when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smoother and clackier typing experience reminiscent of a laptop keyboard, then the Ink Yellow is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Maple Leaf might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for key feel and sound. Happy typing!
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