Outemu Maple Leaf vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and the KTT Peach offer distinct experiences for users. The Maple Leaf is a tactile switch, known for its unique characteristics, while the Peach is a linear switch, prized for its smooth typing experience and satisfying sound profile. The Maple Leaf is categorized as tactile, while the Peach falls under categories like low-pitched, neutral, and mild. Depending on your preferences, you may lean towards the Maple Leaf for a tactile feedback or the Peach for a silky typing experience. 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
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Maple Leaf and the KTT Peach both feature a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housings. However, the Maple Leaf utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Peach features a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Peach produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Maple Leaf. The difference in top housing material between the two switches can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, their top housings set them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The use of polycarbonate in the Peach's top housing creates a more clear and resonant sound profile, particularly suitable for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience, contributing to a duller and rounder typing sound. The choice between a polycarbonate and nylon top housing can influence the overall typing experience for users looking for specific sound profiles and aesthetics in their switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf and the KTT Peach comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. Both switches utilize nylon bottom housings, which provide a deep and full sound profile. However, the difference in top housing material – nylon for the Maple Leaf and polycarbonate for the Peach – results in distinct sound characteristics. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound from the polycarbonate top housing of the Peach or a deeper, fuller sound from the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf will determine which switch is better suited for your typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, it is clear that the Maple Leaf requires a heavier touch compared to the Peach. The Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Peach has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Peach switch, as it requires less force to activate and bottom out. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference based on whether a lighter or heavier touch is desired for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Peach linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common, the slight difference between the two can impact user preference. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the Maple Leaf switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the Peach switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired feel of the keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Peach comes in at $2.91.
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 a sound profile that has not been specifically described in the given information. On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch is praised for its low-pitched and neutral sound characteristics. This means that the Peach switch will likely offer a deeper, more bass-heavy sound compared to the Maple Leaf, which might appeal to those who prefer a mellower tone in their typing experience. However, it is important to note that the actual sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have a specific description provided. In contrast, the KTT Peach linear switch is noted for its mild feel. This suggests that the Peach switch offers a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The mild feel of the Peach switch places it in a safe middle-ground zone, making it suitable for a wide range of users who may appreciate a more approachable typing feel.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Maple Leaf's sound and feel characteristics have not been explicitly described, the Peach switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile and mild typing feel. Depending on personal preferences, individuals may lean towards the Peach switch for a smoother, bass-heavy sound and a gentle typing experience, or the Maple Leaf switch for potentially different qualities. Ultimately, the right choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch or the KTT Peach linear switch, you should opt for the Maple Leaf if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. This switch is best suited for those who are looking for a tactile typing experience without any specific standout features. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams and value a smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, the KTT Peach linear switch would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile.
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