Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and Outemu Purple both offer a tactile typing experience. The Maple Leaf switch is best known for well-confined tactile bump and precise actuation. On the other hand, the Purple switch is best known for smooth tactile bump and comfortable typing experience. While both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them appealing, the decision between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Maple Leaf and Outemu Purple switches both feature nylon top housings, which allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound that is distinct to switches with nylon housings. On the other hand, the Purple switch incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic produces a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Maple Leaf and Purple switches utilize nylon, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of the nylon plastic absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. While the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to the overall sound profile, it is the characteristics of the top housing that have a more significant impact when typing on the switches. The split in housing materials allows for a balance of qualities between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf and Outemu Purple switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Maple Leaf offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top and bottom housings, the Purple switch provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, making them suitable options for individuals seeking specific sound characteristics in their mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, whether you prefer a softer and duller sound or a sharper and clearer sound will determine which switch is the right fit for you.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Maple Leaf has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Purple's 50 grams. Additionally, the Maple Leaf requires a bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the Purple's bottom out force is unknown. The Maple Leaf is considered medium-heavy in terms of force needed for both actuation and bottoming out, while the Purple's specifications are lacking in one aspect. In terms of weight preferences, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Purple for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Maple Leaf for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Maple Leaf provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers seeking fast-paced gameplay. On the other hand, the Purple switch offers a more substantial depth and may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback when typing or gaming. Both switches have their advantages, with the Maple Leaf catering to speed and the Purple catering to a deeper keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 Maple Leaf and Purple.
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, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and Purple tactile switches don't have any distinct reputation or characteristics that set them apart from each other. The sound produced by a switch can vary based on the keyboard housing and keycaps used, so you can expect similar results from both switches in this aspect.
On the other hand, in terms of feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is noted for its unique tactile bump and medium actuation force. Users often report a satisfying tactile feedback and a smooth keystroke experience with this switch. In contrast, the Outemu Purple tactile switch offers a different tactile feel with a slightly lighter actuation force. Typing on a keyboard equipped with these switches may feel slightly softer and more responsive compared to the Maple Leaf switch.
Overall, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and Purple tactile switches have their own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Maple Leaf switch provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Purple switch offers a lighter actuation force for a smoother typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for tactile feel and typing style, you can choose between these switches to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Maple Leaf and Outemu Purple tactile switches, consider your preference for a medium-heavy bottom out force. If you prefer a more tactile and responsive typing experience, the Maple Leaf switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a bottom out force that is lighter or if you are looking for a quieter typing experience, the Purple switch may be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and preferences.
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