Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that both offer unique benefits for different typing preferences. The Gateron Mini i switches are designed with office-centric needs in mind, providing gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile for a quiet and professional typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf switches offer a different typing experience with a lack of distinctive features being noted. While the Mini i switches are best suited for those who prefer a bouncy, easy-to-press switch with subtle tactility, the Maple Leaf switches may appeal to individuals looking for a more neutral and subdued typing 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
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Maple Leaf both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound when typing on them, providing a more satisfying auditory experience for users. In terms of sound production, the nylon housing of both switches functions similarly, contributing to a consistent typing experience.
However, despite their similarities in housing material, the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Maple Leaf may differ in the specific design and construction of their housings. Variations in the thickness, shape, and overall build of the housings can impact the overall typing experience by influencing factors such as tactility, smoothness, and overall feel of the switch. These differences can ultimately result in slight variations in sound, feel, and performance between the two switches, catering to the preferences of different users based on their typing style and preferences.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches share the use of nylon housing material, they may offer slightly different typing experiences due to variations in other aspects of their design. The impact of the housing material on sound and feel remains consistent between the two switches, providing users with a deeper and fuller typing sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and specific typing needs, as the nuances in their design can cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is clear that the Mini i is lighter in both aspects compared to the Maple Leaf. The Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Mini i will provide a lighter typing experience overall. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Maple Leaf would be the better choice due to its heavier forces. In terms of similarities, both switches provide a tactile typing experience, so regardless of the differences in force, users can expect similar results in terms of feedback and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for fast response times. The difference between the two distances is minimal, so in terms of actual feel, the user would likely experience similar results when typing or gaming with either switch. Overall, the Gateron Mini i has a slightly longer travel distance, making it the longer option between the two, but the variance is so small that it may not be noticeable to the average user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, 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 Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between being not too loud and not too quiet, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch are unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These qualities combine to provide a typing experience that is responsive, comfortable, and versatile for different preferences. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is not specified. If the feel of the Maple Leaf switch is similar to the Gateron Mini i in terms of these qualities, users can expect a comparable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, subtle sound profile, and comfortable typing experience ideal for office settings. While the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch remain unknown, if they align with the descriptors provided for the Gateron Mini i, users can anticipate a similar level of performance and satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference and specific typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a light and bouncy typing experience that is ideal for a professional setting like an office, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a tactile switch with a different feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch might be more suitable for your needs. Consider your personal preferences and typing environment to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
