Gazzew LT vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew LT and the Outemu Maple Leaf offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Gazzew LT, a linear switch, stands out for its enticing lilac hue and the auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness that accompanies every keystroke. The seamless glide of the LTs further enhances the typing experience, making them ideal for those who prefer a smooth and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, lacks a standout feature but is known for its tactile feedback during typing. While the LT is categorized as bassy, thocky, low-pitched, the Maple Leaf does not have any specific categorization. Overall, the choice between these two switches depends on whether you prioritize a linear typing experience with the LT or prefer the tactile feedback of the Maple Leaf. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and the Outemu Maple Leaf both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," offers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In comparison, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing provides a fuller and deeper sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. Both switches share the characteristic of delivering a satisfying typing experience with their top housing materials, although the specific sound profiles may vary slightly.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Gazzew LT and the Outemu Maple Leaf again demonstrate differences in their material choices. The LT's Gazzew blend bottom housing, like its top housing counterpart, delivers a rich and deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, making typing on these switches a unique experience. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, and users may notice distinct differences in this aspect between the two switches due to their varied housing materials.
In the case of switches with different top and bottom housings, such as the Gazzew LT and the Outemu Maple Leaf, users can expect a combination of the qualities brought by each material. The bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in housing materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles. Whether you prefer the rich and deep sound of the Gazzew LT or the fuller sound of the Outemu Maple Leaf, both switches have something special to offer to keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch have different actuation forces and bottom out forces. The LT has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is a lighter switch in terms of initial force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that once the key is pressed all the way down, the amount of force required is the same for both switches. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the LT for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Maple Leaf for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, we can see that the LT has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Maple Leaf has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant to most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper press may lean towards the Maple Leaf. On the other hand, those seeking a more immediate keypress may find the LT to be a better fit for their typing or gaming needs. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional options, providing a snappy and responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10.
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 Gazzew LT linear switch stands out for its bassy and thocky characteristics, providing a deep and rich auditory experience with each key press. The low-pitched sound profile adds to the overall satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, so it is challenging to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, unfortunately, there is no specific information provided about the tactile feedback or typing experience of either the Gazzew LT linear switch or the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch. Without this information, it is difficult to determine the differences or similarities in the typing feel between the two switches.
In conclusion, if we were to compare the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch based on the available information, the LT would be preferred for its described smooth and seamless glide during typing, as well as its deep and satisfying sound profile. However, without any information on the feel of the Maple Leaf switch, it is hard to make a definitive comparison in this aspect. Ultimately, when choosing between these two switches, consider factors such as personal preference for linear or tactile switches, desired sound profile, and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you are looking for a switch that offers a unique auditory experience with a deep and resonant thockiness, smooth typing experience, and a bottom out force of 65 grams, then the Gazzew LT linear switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize tactility and a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch could be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you value sound and smooth typing or tactility in your mechanical keyboard switches. Consider these factors carefully before making your decision.
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