Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Maple Leaf. The Lightning Silver V3 is a linear switch known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, as well as its silky and seamless typing experience. Additionally, it features a light diffuser that enhances RGB illumination, adding a vibrant touch to any keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that does not have a specific standout feature mentioned. While the Lightning Silver V3 offers a unique typing experience with its sound and feel, the Maple Leaf may appeal to those looking for a more subtle and understated switch. 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
48g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Maple Leaf, we see that the Lightning Silver V3 utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, whereas the Maple Leaf uses nylon for both. The polycarbonate material in the Lightning Silver V3 creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the nylon in the Maple Leaf results in a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softer nature. Both materials have their own unique acoustic properties that impact the overall typing experience.
However, where the two switches differ is in their sound characteristics based on the type of plastic used. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Lightning Silver V3 contribute to a more clear and resonant sound, while the nylon housing in the Maple Leaf absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly affect the typing experience, with the Lightning Silver V3 offering a sharper and crisper sound compared to the deeper and fuller sound of the Maple Leaf.
Ultimately, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Maple Leaf may have different housing materials, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the sharper and higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, each switch provides a unique typing experience that can enhance your overall satisfaction with your mechanical keyboard. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific sound profile you desire while typing.
Weight
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Lightning Silver V3 requires 60 grams while the Maple Leaf needs 65 grams, making it slightly heavier as well. Both switches fall under the medium category in terms of actuation force, but the Maple Leaf switch leans towards the medium-heavy range. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Lightning Silver V3, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial push feel may prefer the Maple Leaf switch for a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and desired force sensitivity.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Maple Leaf tactile switch. In terms of feel and responsiveness, the Lightning Silver V3 may offer a slightly more satisfying depth when pressed, while the Maple Leaf may provide a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched nature, creating a sharp and snappy sound profile that is crisp, bright, and percussive. In comparison, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown, leaving a bit of uncertainty in this aspect. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and a seamless feel when typing. On the other hand, the tactile feedback provided by the Outemu Maple Leaf switch remains a mystery, leaving a gap in the comparison of their tactile qualities.
In conclusion, the Lightning Silver V3 linear switch by Everglide shines with its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, as well as its silky smooth feel during typing. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch are not clearly defined in the provided information, it's important to consider personal preferences and experimentation to determine which switch would best suit your desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, and exploring their qualities further can help in making an informed decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when making a decision between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider the key characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a silky typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force without specific sound or feel preferences, the Maple Leaf tactile switch could be a suitable option. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience and enhances your overall keyboard setup.
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