Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Maple Leaf mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider their key characteristics and how they differ in terms of feel and sound. The Dustproof Purple switch is a clicky switch, providing a satisfying audible click 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. The Dustproof Purple switch is known for its crisp feedback and audible click, making it ideal for those who prefer a tactile and audible typing experience. In contrast, the Maple Leaf switch provides a tactile bump without the audible click, offering a quieter typing experience while still providing 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Maple Leaf, we can see that they both have different top housing materials. The Dustproof Purple uses polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Maple Leaf uses nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in top housing materials leads to a noticeable difference in sound when typing on the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Purple provides a more clear and resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Dustproof Purple and the Maple Leaf use nylon for their bottom housings. This consistent choice of material between the two switches means that they share the qualities of a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced, as the softer nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Maple Leaf differ in their top housing materials, with the Dustproof Purple using polycarbonate and the Maple Leaf using nylon, they share a common bottom housing material of nylon. This results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel, with the softer nylon material providing a deeper and fuller sound for both switches. The unique attributes of the top housing materials, however, do create distinct differences in sound characteristics when typing on the Dustproof Purple versus the Maple Leaf.
Weight
Both the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch have the same actuation force and bottom out force, with both requiring 55 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 65 grams to bottom out. This means that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of force required when using either of these switches. The medium-heavy weight of these switches provides a satisfying amount of feedback for typing enthusiasts who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for the type of feedback and typing experience desired, whether it be a lighter feel for longer typing sessions or a heavier push for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch both offer a satisfying typing experience, but they differ in their travel distances. The Dustproof Purple has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered to be a more traditional length, offering a good balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it slightly shorter and potentially more suitable for those looking for a faster response time. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Maple Leaf switch for quick movements and key presses. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Purple switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Purple 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 Purple clicky switch is known for its loud and satisfying click sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is known for its smooth and subtle tactile bump, providing a quieter typing experience for those who prefer a more understated sound profile. The sound produced by both switches may differ depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Purple switch is reported to have a light and crisp tactile feel, allowing for quick and responsive keystrokes. In comparison, the Maple Leaf tactile switch offers a more pronounced tactile bump, providing a tactile typing experience without the audible click of the Dustproof Purple. The typing feel can also be influenced by factors like keycap material and typing style.
Overall, both the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch offer unique typing experiences with their distinct sound and feel properties. If you enjoy a loud and clicky typing experience, the Dustproof Purple is a great choice, while the Maple Leaf provides a quieter and more tactile feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing habits, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch. It is recommended to try out both switches to determine which one suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clicky sound and prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Dustproof Purple switch may be the better fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump in your keystrokes and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Maple Leaf switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what type of typing experience you value most.
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