SP-Star Meteor White vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White, a linear switch, and the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Meteor White boasts a gentle linear feel with a soft sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf offers a tactile feedback that provides a more pronounced bump with each keypress. While the Meteor White excels in offering a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Maple Leaf provides a more tactile and responsive feel. 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
57g
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
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Maple Leaf are both made of nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience with a unique sound profile that enhances the overall feel of pressing and releasing keys.
One key difference between the two switches is that if the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing will affect the sound when a key is released. This split in housing materials can potentially create a more dynamic typing experience with varying sound profiles depending on the stage of pressing and releasing a key.
Overall, the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Maple Leaf, being both made of nylon, provide similar benefits in terms of sound absorption and creating a deeper sound profile. The differences in top and bottom housing materials, if present, can lead to variations in sound and feel when typing, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both switches will offer users a satisfying sound profile with a unique and pleasant typing experience, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Meteor White is lighter in terms of actuation force as it requires None grams to trigger a keystroke, whereas the Maple Leaf tactile switch requires 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Meteor White is lighter at 57 grams compared to the Maple Leaf's 65 grams. The Meteor White provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Maple Leaf offers a medium-heavy push feel. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to individuals who prefer lighter or heavier typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Meteor White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Maple Leaf's 3.3 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Meteor White is more traditional, while the 3.3 mm of the Maple Leaf is shallower and more suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. Those who prefer a more responsive key press may opt for the shorter travel distance of the Maple Leaf, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the longer travel distance of the Meteor White. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences based on individual preferences, with the choice depending on whether one prioritizes speed or depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a soft and gentle sound profile, described as either neutral or thocky depending on the context in which it is used. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. The feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unknown. A polished switch typically indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a soft and gentle sound profile and a mild and polished typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch would be a good option to consider. If you are unsure about the sound and feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, choosing the Meteor White may provide you with similar results in terms of typing experience. It is always recommended to try out different switches to see which one best suits your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a soft, pitter-patter sound profile, the Meteor White would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a more tactile feel, the Maple Leaf might be the better option for you. Consider your typing habits and preferences to determine which switch would best suit your needs. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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