KTT Matcha vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha 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 KTT Matcha and the Outemu Maple Leaf, both tactile switches. The KTT Matcha is praised for its comfortable and snappy tactility, making typing a pleasant experience. It also boasts a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf lacks a standout feature but still offers a tactile typing experience. While the Matcha is described as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', the Maple Leaf does not have any specific characteristics highlighted. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing needs. 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
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Maple Leaf, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The Matcha utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Maple Leaf uses nylon for a deeper and fuller sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting, whereas nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound profile. This distinction in top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound experience of the switch.
Another point of comparison is the bottom housing material of the two switches. The Matcha features a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf has a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The difference in bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, highlighting the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound and typing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Maple Leaf, they both demonstrate the importance of choosing the right materials for a switch. Whether it is the stiffer polycarbonate for a clearer and resonant sound, or the softer nylon for a deeper and rounder sound, each material brings unique qualities to the typing experience. Understanding how top and bottom housing materials impact sound profiles can help users make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards.
Weight
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch. The Matcha requires 40 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, giving it a lighter feel. In contrast, the Maple Leaf switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium to heavy switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Matcha switch, while those who appreciate a more substantial push feel may opt for the Maple Leaf switch. Both switches provide a unique typing experience based on their differing actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Matcha has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Matcha's 4.0mm travel distance allows for a deeper press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's 3.3mm travel distance is shorter, making it ideal for individuals who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer unique advantages, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience. Overall, the Matcha provides a longer travel distance, while the Maple Leaf offers a shorter travel distance for those who prefer it.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 KTT Matcha tactile switch is known for its clacky sound profile, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. This sound is especially clean and satisfying due to its long pole stem design. On the other hand, information about the sound of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unknown. It's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a unique typing experience with its stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle qualities. These switches provide a tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet still noticeable, making for a comfortable and responsive typing feel. Unfortunately, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch are not provided. Similar to sound, the typing feel of a switch is also affected by factors such as the keycap material and typing style.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch stands out for its clean bottom-out sound and comfortable, snappy tactility. The sound profile is clacky, while the typing feel is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. Although information on the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is lacking, it's important to consider personal preferences and typing needs when choosing between different mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results in terms of sound and feel, depending on individual preferences and setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a light bottom out force and enjoy a comfortable, snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha may be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a clacky sound profile and a switch that feels stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle, the Matcha would be a great fit for your typing preferences. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a tactile switch with specific characteristics that are not hypertactile but still provide a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy, the Maple Leaf could be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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