Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Outemu Tom both stand out as tactile switches but offer different characteristics for users to consider. The Maple Leaf is classified as tactile, while the Tom also falls into the same category. The Maple Leaf switch might be the preferred choice for those looking for a smoother typing experience, while the Tom switch may appeal to individuals who prioritize more pronounced tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 main difference between the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Outemu Tom lies in their top housing materials. The Maple Leaf features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Tom is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Maple Leaf offers a duller and rounder sound, the Tom's polycarbonate top housing provides a clearer and resonant sound output. Additionally, the Tom's translucency makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
On the other hand, both the Maple Leaf and the Tom share the same nylon bottom housing material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making typing on both switches a satisfying experience. The softer plastic of the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound output. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housing materials, the similarities in their bottom housing materials ensure that users can expect similar acoustic qualities when typing on either the Maple Leaf or the Tom.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Outemu Tom ultimately depends on the user's preference for sound profile and aesthetic appeal. While the Maple Leaf offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top and bottom housing, the Tom provides a sharper and crisper sound output with its polycarbonate top housing. Additionally, the Tom's translucency makes it stand out visually, especially when used with RGB lighting. Both switches, however, offer a satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housing, ensuring that users can enjoy a consistent sound profile regardless of their top housing material choice.
Weight
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch both have the same actuation force of 55 grams. However, the Maple Leaf has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Maple Leaf a medium-heavy switch compared to the Tom, which has an undefined weight. The actuation force of 55 grams on both switches means that you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of how much force is needed to register a keypress. The weight of a switch can play a significant role in user preference, with lighter switches being favored for extended typing sessions or gaming, and heavier switches providing a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that they offer the same tactile experience in terms of how far the switch travels from top to bottom. This means that whether you choose the Maple Leaf or the Tom switch, you can expect similar results in terms of the keypress feel and travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a consistent and reliable typing experience with a travel distance that remains the same.
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 Tom.
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 Maple Leaf tactile switch is known for its smoothness, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch is also known for its responsiveness. When it comes to sound, the Maple Leaf switch is described as quiet, while the Tom switch is said to be slightly louder. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used. Moving on to the feel, the Maple Leaf switch is known for its soft feedback, while the Tom switch is recognized for its pronounced tactile bump. Both switches offer a unique tactile experience that caters to different preferences. In conclusion, both switches provide distinct sound and feel characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. It is important to consider your personal preferences and keyboard setup when selecting between the Outemu Maple Leaf and Outemu Tom switches to achieve the desired typing feel and sound.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it's important to consider the specific factors that are most important to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a tactile feel that is best known for its smoothness, then the Maple Leaf switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force and a tactile feel that is best known for its crisp feedback, then the Tom switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, as well as the specific features that each switch offers. Happy typing!
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