Outemu Blue vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch. The Outemu Blue switch is best known for its satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among typists and gamers who enjoy the audible confirmation of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is renowned for its tactile bump without the audible click, providing a more subtle typing experience that suits those who prefer a quieter switch. While both switches offer distinct advantages, such as the Blue's audible feedback and the Maple Leaf's tactile bump, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
The Outemu Blue switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Blue switch leads to a more clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon material in the Maple Leaf switch absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. Despite their differences in sound characteristics, both switches are known for their durability and reliability.
Both the Outemu Blue and Maple Leaf switches have a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile experienced when typing on these switches. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a smoother typing experience. While the bottom housing plays a significant role in the sound and feel of the bottom-out action, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Overall, the combination of different housing materials in each switch offers a unique typing experience for users looking for specific sound profiles.
In summary, the choice between the Outemu Blue and Maple Leaf switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound characteristics. The Blue switch with its polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the Maple Leaf switch with its nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller tone. Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing for a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a clear and resonant sound (Blue) or a duller and rounder tone (Maple Leaf), both switches offer reliable performance and durability.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Outemu Blue has an unknown weight, while the Outemu Maple Leaf has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Outemu Blue switch, while individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a stronger push feeling may opt for the Outemu Maple Leaf switch. However, both switches offer distinct advantages depending on the user's personal preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3mm. The Blue switch offers a traditional travel distance that many are accustomed to, while the Maple Leaf switch provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Maple Leaf switch for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Blue switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Blue and Maple Leaf.
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 Outemu Blue clicky switch is well-known for its loud and satisfying click sound, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is cherished for its subtle and tactile bump without the audible click, providing a quieter typing experience for those who prefer a more discreet option. When it comes to feel, the Blue switch offers a light and crisp actuation force, perfect for fast typists who prefer a responsive key press. In comparison, the Maple Leaf switch provides a tactile bump at the actuation point, giving typists a clear indication of when the keystroke has been registered without the additional noise. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when you're looking for a satisfying and clicky typing experience, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is the way to go. The Blue switch offers a light and tactile bump with an audible click, making it perfect for those who enjoy a louder typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter switch with a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch would be a better choice. The Maple Leaf switch provides a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gentle tactile bump without the loud clicking noise that the Blue switch is known for. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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