Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Outemu Silver. The Maple Leaf switch is a tactile switch, providing a satisfying tactile bump when pressed, while the Silver switch is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke. In general, those who prefer a more tactile typing experience may lean towards the Maple Leaf, while those who prioritize a smoother keystroke may opt for the Silver switch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and Outemu Silver switches differ in terms of composition and resulting sound profiles. The Maple Leaf features a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic. The contrast between the duller, rounder sound of nylon in the Maple Leaf and the clear, resonant sound of polycarbonate in the Silver highlights the impact of housing materials on typing experience.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Maple Leaf and Silver switches differ, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches will exhibit a similar deep and full sound profile, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. Despite the differences in the top housing material, this shared characteristic ensures that the bottom-out sound and feel for both switches will have a consistent quality, showcasing the importance of housing material in determining typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice of housing material in switches such as the Outemu Maple Leaf and Silver has a significant impact on the resulting sound profile and typing experience. The contrasting qualities of nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches lead to distinct differences in sound, with nylon creating a deeper and fuller sound in the Maple Leaf and polycarbonate producing a sharper and crisper sound in the Silver. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound characteristics of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Silver linear switch's 45 grams, making the Silver the lighter option. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, which means that once the key is fully pressed down, the force required is equal. For those who enjoy a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Silver switch may be preferred, as it requires less force to initiate a keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch provides a slightly stronger push feel, which may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, we can see that the Maple Leaf has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Silver switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch offers a shorter travel distance, potentially leading to faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether you prefer a shorter, more responsive feel or a longer, more tactile 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 Maple Leaf and Silver.
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 Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is known for producing a soft and subtle sound, making it a good option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch is known for its smooth and consistent sound, providing a satisfying typing noise without being too loud. Both switches offer a pleasant sound profile, but the Maple Leaf may have a slightly quieter typing sound compared to the Silver.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is known for its tactile bump that provides feedback when a key is pressed, giving typists a sense of confirmation with each keystroke. Conversely, the Outemu Silver linear switch offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, without the tactile bump, allowing for fast and fluid typing experience. While the Maple Leaf provides a more pronounced tactile sensation, the Silver offers a seamless typing feel with no tactile feedback.
Overall, both the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Maple Leaf provides a quieter typing sound and a distinct tactile bump for feedback, while the Silver offers a smooth keystroke and a satisfying typing noise. Depending on whether you prefer tactile feedback or a linear feel, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style. Ultimately, both switches are reliable options that deliver optimal performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, consider the feel and sound preferences that best suit your typing style. If you enjoy a tactile bump and feedback while typing, the Maple Leaf switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more linear typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Silver switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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