Cherry MX Orange vs. Outemu Maple Leaf

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Maple Leaf present intriguing options, each catering to different user preferences. The Cherry MX Orange is renowned for its linear characteristics, providing a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience that many gamers and typists appreciate for rapid keystrokes and minimal resistance. This switch has been revived with enhancements, meeting high demand while maintaining the original qualities that users loved. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf, categorized as a tactile switch, offers a pronounced tactile feedback, which can enhance typing accuracy and provide a satisfying experience, especially for those who prefer to feel each keystroke. While the MX Orange is ideal for those seeking speed and fluidity, the Maple Leaf appeals to users who enjoy the feedback and assurance of tactile cues. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Orange Linear

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Maple Leaf switches feature nylon as their housing material, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings contributes to a sound signature that is characterized by a duller and rounder quality. This is largely due to nylon's relatively softer nature, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, both switches deliver a similar auditory experience during typing, making them appealing choices for users who prefer a quieter and more muted keystroke sound.

Though both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which produces a harmonized sound profile, the nuances in design and construction may influence the overall tactile experience of each switch. With nylon being a classic housing material, both the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Maple Leaf are likely to exhibit comparable sound characteristics; however, the specific mechanical designs and key actuation mechanisms in each switch could contribute differing tactile sensations upon keypress. This means that while the sound might be alike, users might still discern differences in feel when typing, primarily driven by the engineering innovations applied to each switch type.

In essence, the combination of nylon housing in both switches assures a similar auditory outcome, yet the overall typing experience may differ due to the distinct architectural variations inherent to the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Maple Leaf designs. Users who prioritize sound quality will find that both switches excel in this regard, but those seeking a unique tactile feedback might prefer one over the other based on their respective key mechanics. Ultimately, while the materials are the same, the design intricacies will play a crucial role in the user experience, making it essential for users to consider both sound and feel when selecting their preferred switch.

Weight

The Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch share the same actuation force of 55 grams, indicating that both require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity suggests that users will experience a comparable typing feel in terms of actuation. However, the crucial difference lies in their bottom out forces. While the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is unavailable, the Outemu Maple Leaf has a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This means that the Maple Leaf switch is heavier overall since users will need to apply more force to reach the bottom of the key press compared to the MX Orange. Consequently, typing on the Maple Leaf may provide a more substantial and tactile experience, which some users might prefer for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, those who favor a lighter touch might gravitate toward the Cherry MX Orange switch for increased comfort during extended use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, notable differences become apparent. The Cherry MX Orange features a travel distance of 4 mm, adhering to the traditional standard for mechanical switches, which offers a more substantial feel with its greater depth. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, catering to a trend towards quicker response times, particularly favored by gamers. This shorter travel can enhance responsiveness, making it easier to achieve rapid key presses. Therefore, for users who appreciate a deeper, more tactile feedback while typing, the Cherry MX Orange would be the preferred choice, while those who prioritize speed and quick responses may lean towards the Outemu Maple Leaf. Ultimately, the difference in travel distances can significantly influence the typing experience, allowing users to select a switch that aligns with their preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Orange switches are generally known for their subdued, smooth acoustics, creating a more muted typing experience that is less likely to disturb those around you. This is largely due to their linear design, which lacks a tactile click and allows for quieter keystrokes. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf switches are not as well-documented, so their specific sound characteristics remain relatively unknown. However, since sound profiles can greatly depend on factors like the keyboard construction and keycap material, it is possible that these Maple Leaf switches may offer a different auditory experience that could range from more pronounced to equally quiet, depending on those variables.

As for feel, the Cherry MX Orange switches are celebrated for their smooth operation with a consistent actuation force throughout the keystroke, allowing for fluid typing without any tactile feedback. This linear characteristic makes them especially suitable for gamers who appreciate rapid key presses. In comparison, the feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switches has not been elaborated upon, leaving a gap in evaluations. Should they be tactile in nature, they might provide a different typing sensation, potentially making them more engaging for typists who prefer distinct feedback when a key is actuated.

In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Orange linear switch is recognized for its smooth and understated auditory and tactile qualities, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch lacks comprehensive documentation for comparison. Those familiar with the MX Orange can anticipate a streamlined typing experience, while the performance of the Maple Leaf switch remains an open question. It’s essential for newcomers to consider their preferences in sound and feel, as this can significantly influence which switch will be a better fit for their needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a smooth, linear keypress that provides a seamless typing experience, particularly for gaming or fast-paced typing, the Cherry MX Orange is an excellent option. Its lightweight actuation means you can type quickly and effortlessly, making it ideal for those marathon gaming sessions or when you need to type at speed without distraction. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback while typing—making each keystroke more noticeable and providing a satisfying bump—you might find the Outemu Maple Leaf more to your liking. The Maple Leaf's medium-heavy actuation force at 65 grams ensures that you feel each keypress, which can improve your typing accuracy and enhance your overall typing experience. Additionally, if sound levels are a consideration for you, you may want to explore the characteristics of each switch as well. Ultimately, consider the type of usage, whether it’s for productivity or gaming, as well as how much tactile feedback you desire, and choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more