KTT Miaowu vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Miaowu, a linear switch, and the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Miaowu is favored for its enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action, thanks to KTT's latest molds and the utilization of POK in its stem. With a classification of 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Miaowu switch provides a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf stands out for its tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced response while typing. 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
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches, it is evident that they both use nylon as their bottom housing material. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a deep and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. The difference in sound between the two switches may come from their top housing materials. The Miaowu utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more rounded and duller sound profile.
One key similarity between the Miaowu and the Maple Leaf switches is their use of nylon for the bottom housing. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile when using either switch. However, where the switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, while the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing produces a deeper sound with more absorption. This contrast in sound profiles between the two switches may cater to different preferences depending on the user's typing style and sound preferences.
In terms of the overall typing experience, the choice of top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of a switch. The Miaowu's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique sound profile that is sharp and resonant, yet deep and full. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's use of nylon for both top and bottom housing materials results in a consistently deep and fuller sound profile. Understanding how different housing materials contribute to the overall sound of a switch can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound quality and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is clear that the Miaowu is the lighter option. The Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. While both switches offer different levels of force for actuation and bottoming out, they provide distinct typing experiences to cater to varying preferences. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Miaowu, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Maple Leaf. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. The Miaowu has a slightly longer travel distance, offering a bit more depth when pressed compared to the Maple Leaf. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Miaowu, as the shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Maple Leaf, with its slightly longer travel distance providing a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
The KTT Miaowu linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Miaowu linear switch is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback to users. This gives the keys a lively feel, offering a rebound effect when pressed. Conversely, the tactile feedback of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is unknown, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in terms of feel between the two switches.
In conclusion, the KTT Miaowu linear switch offers a clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel, thanks to its enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's sound and feel qualities remain unknown. If you are looking for similar results in sound and feel to the Miaowu switch, it may be best to opt for a switch with a known clacky sound profile and bouncy feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a smooth keystroke action with enhanced stem stability, the Miaowu may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and want a tactile feedback with a bit more resistance, the Maple Leaf switch might be more suitable. Consider your typing habits, desired sound profile, and preferred tactile feel when making your decision between these two switches. No matter which one you choose, both switches offer unique features that can enhance your typing experience.
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