Durock Medium Tactile vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile 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 Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Maple Leaf, both of which are tactile switches. The Durock Medium Tactile stands out for its unique blend of pronounced yet balanced tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. It is categorized as accented, stepped, mild, polished, making it a versatile option for various typing preferences. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf lacks specific distinguishing features but offers a solid tactile typing experience. As with any keyboard switch comparison, there are general points to consider when choosing between the two. 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Maple Leaf, one can see that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing. In terms of sound, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
On the other hand, the top housing of the Durock Medium Tactile features polycarbonate, while the Outemu Maple Leaf utilizes nylon for its top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches with clear housings that are meant to showcase RGB lighting. Meanwhile, nylon top housings are known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer material absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound when typing on the switch. The top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key.
While the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Maple Leaf differ in terms of their top housings, they both use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that while the sound profile may vary slightly between the two switches, they will both provide a deep and full sound when typing. The split between the bottom and top housing's qualities allows for a unique typing experience with each switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile and Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switches are quite similar in terms of bottom out force at 65 grams each, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. However, the key difference lies in the actuation force, with the Medium Tactile having None grams, while the Maple Leaf requires 55 grams. This means that the Medium Tactile may provide a lighter initial typing experience compared to the Maple Leaf. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Medium Tactile more suitable for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial push feel may prefer the Maple Leaf. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying and tactile typing experience, with the main distinction being the initial actuation force required to trigger a keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Medium Tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is clear that the Medium Tactile has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Maple Leaf's 3.3 mm. The Medium Tactile offers a more traditional and deeper keypress experience, while the Maple Leaf provides a slightly shorter travel distance for a quicker response. Gamers may prefer the Maple Leaf for its faster response times, while those who appreciate a deeper keypress may opt for the Medium Tactile. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distance, allowing users to choose the switch that best suits their preferences for typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, indicating a unique auditory experience. The sound of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is not widely documented, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Remember, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is well-regarded for its accented, stepped, mild, and polished qualities. These descriptors suggest a switch that provides a balanced tactility without being too overwhelming or too subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is unknown, making it challenging to assess how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing feel.
Overall, while the Durock Medium Tactile and Outemu Maple Leaf switches may offer different sound and feel experiences, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between them. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, so experimenting with different switches and configurations may be necessary to find the best match for your needs. As both switches fall under the tactile category, you can expect similar tactile feedback, but the specific nuances in sound and feel may vary between the two.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switches, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a pronounced yet balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy tactile switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams but do not have a specific preference for sound or feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf could be a suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences and typing style. So, take into consideration the characteristics and qualities that each switch offers before making your decision.
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