Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Outemu Maple Leaf offer unique typing experiences for enthusiasts. The Dustproof Blue switch is a clicky switch, providing satisfying audible feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch is a tactile switch, offering a subtle bump in the keystroke to indicate actuation. Both switches have their own strengths - the Dustproof Blue is ideal for those who enjoy the sound and feel of a clicky switch, while the Maple Leaf is great for those who prefer a tactile response without the additional noise. 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
65g
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 Dustproof Blue and Outemu Maple Leaf switches differ in their housing materials, with the Dustproof Blue featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Maple Leaf has a nylon top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics based on their housing materials.
In terms of sound production, the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when a key is released, creating a more resonant and clear sound profile. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Blue will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, offering a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the nylon top and bottom housings of the Maple Leaf will work together to provide a deeper and fuller sound experience when typing on the switches.
While the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Outemu Maple Leaf switches have different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles based on the characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon. The use of nylon in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate in the Dustproof Blue adds a sharper and crisper sound quality. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as each housing material brings its own distinctive characteristics to the typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch have similar bottom out forces of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel when typing. However, the Dustproof Blue has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Maple Leaf's 55 grams. This means that the Dustproof Blue will require slightly less force to register a keystroke, making it feel lighter when typing. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Dustproof Blue may be the better option. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force. Both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force, ensuring a satisfying key press with each stroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Blue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Maple Leaf. The 4 mm travel distance of the Dustproof Blue provides a more traditional and deeper keystroke feel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial press. On the other hand, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Maple Leaf offers a slightly shallower keystroke, which may be favored by those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches have their advantages, with the Dustproof Blue offering a deeper press and the Maple Leaf providing a slightly quicker response. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Dustproof 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 Dustproof Blue clicky switch offers a satisfying click sound that is not too loud, making it perfect for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch provides a subtle tactile bump without any audible click, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches have their own unique feel, with the Dustproof Blue being slightly more tactile and the Maple Leaf offering a smoother keystroke.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a clicky switch with a distinct tactile feel, the Dustproof Blue may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a subtle tactile bump, the Maple Leaf may be more suitable. Remember to also consider other factors such as keycap and board choices, as they can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, trying out both switches for yourself will give you the best understanding of which one suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for a clicky or tactile typing experience. If you enjoy the satisfying clicky sound and feedback of the Dustproof Blue, along with needing a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, then this switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump without the audible click, and also require a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Maple Leaf switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your preferences and typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer a reliable and durable typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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