Cherry MX Black vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Maple Leaf mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options with unique characteristics. The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch that is praised for its smooth texture and deep sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a low-pitched and stiff typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf is a tactile switch, offering a different feel with a tactile bump upon actuation. While the MX Black is known for its refined smoothness, the Maple Leaf provides a different typing experience with its tactile feedback. 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Maple Leaf, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material. The use of nylon in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the two switches.
One key difference between the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches lies in the actuation force required to register a key press. The Cherry MX Black switch is known for its heavier actuation force, requiring more effort to press down a key compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf switch. This difference in actuation force may impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a lighter or heavier key press. However, in terms of housing material, both switches offer a comparable sound profile and tactile feel due to the use of nylon in their construction.
Despite their differences in actuation force, both the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches boast similar housing materials, resulting in a similar sound profile and typing experience. The nylon top and bottom housing of each switch contribute to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, making them ideal choices for users who appreciate a more tactile typing experience. While the actuation force may vary between the two switches, users can expect a consistent level of quality and performance thanks to the shared use of nylon in their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it becomes evident that the MX Black is heavier in both aspects. The MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavy switch overall. In contrast, the Maple Leaf has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, positioning it as a medium-heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Maple Leaf would be the better option as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, the MX Black provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Cherry MX Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf. The 4 mm travel distance of the MX Black falls into the more traditional range, offering a balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Maple Leaf is on the shorter end, making it preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance for quick key presses, the Maple Leaf would be the better option. However, if you enjoy a bit more depth in your key presses, the MX Black may be more suitable for you. Both switches offer different advantages, so it ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00, 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 Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its low-pitched and deep sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Black switch is recognized for its textured feel, which can provide a tactile typing experience for users who prefer some friction when pressing the keys. Additionally, these switches are on the stiffer side, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. In comparison, the feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is not specified, so it is unknown how it compares in terms of texture or actuation force.
Considering the available information, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is praised for its low-pitched sound profile, textured feel, and stiffness, making it a favorite among users who enjoy a tactile and slightly heavier typing experience. While the qualities of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch remain unknown, it is possible to expect similar results in terms of sound and feel based on the general characteristics of tactile switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference in sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider the amount of force you are comfortable with. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and a stiff, textured typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, then the Cherry MX Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a tactile typing experience with a different sound profile, then the Outemu Maple Leaf switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in typing feel and sound.
Mentioned in this article
