Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, there are a variety of options to consider based on your specific needs and preferences. Two popular choices are the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches. The Cherry MX Speed Silver is a linear switch that is renowned for its rapid response time, making it ideal for gamers who require quick and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience with a distinct tactile bump when the key is actuated. While the Speed Silver is great for gaming due to its instant triggering and low spring resistance, the Maple Leaf provides a satisfying tactile feedback for typists who prefer a more tactile typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches, both use nylon for their top and bottom housings. This means that typing on switches that utilize either of these materials will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. As a result, both switches will produce a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made with harder plastics. The similarities in their housing materials suggest that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel from both switches.
However, while the materials used for the top and bottom housings of the MX Speed Silver and the Maple Leaf switches are the same, the impact of these housing materials may differ based on their placement within the switch. The bottom housing of a switch tends to have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released. This difference in distribution of influence within the switches may lead to subtle variations in typing experience between the two, despite their shared housing material.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches may come down to personal preference when it comes to typing experience. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile due to their nylon housing materials, but the slight differences in how these materials impact keypresses and key releases may be a deciding factor for some users. Whether one prefers a switch with a more pronounced bottom-out feel or values the sound produced when releasing a key, understanding the nuances of each switch's housing materials can help users make an informed decision based on their typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The MX Speed Silver has a much lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the Maple Leaf's heavier 55 grams. The bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unknown, whereas the Maple Leaf has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the MX Speed Silver would provide a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Maple Leaf would offer a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these two switches cater to different preferences, with the MX Speed Silver being lighter and the Maple Leaf being heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear 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 preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly quicker response time with the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. If you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel when typing, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch would be the preferred choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each press. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown. It's worth noting that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as textured, giving users a tactile feedback with noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can be divisive among users, with some preferring the added tactile sensation while others may prefer a smoother typing experience. As for the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, details on its feel are unavailable. This lack of information makes it difficult to directly compare the tactile experience between the two switches.
Overall, if you're looking for a switch that prioritizes speed and instant response for gaming, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is a solid choice with its linear action and low spring resistance. Additionally, its thocky sound profile adds to the overall gaming experience for those who enjoy auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch may appeal to users looking for a tactile typing experience, although specific details on its sound and feel are unknown. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and intended use case.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch or the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you are a gamer looking for maximum speed and responsiveness, the MX Speed Silver may be the better option for you with its instantaneous triggering and low spring resistance. On the other hand, if you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and are seeking a tactile typing experience, the Maple Leaf switch could be the right choice. Consider your typing style, gaming habits, and sound and feel preferences to make an informed decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the best switch for you will be the one that enhances your typing or gaming experience the most.
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