Outemu Maple Leaf vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and the KTT Phalaenopsis both offer unique experiences for tactile switch enthusiasts. The Maple Leaf is known for its unique qualities, while the Phalaenopsis stands out with its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue. The Maple Leaf falls under the category of linear switches, while the Phalaenopsis is categorized as smooth, stepped, and thocky. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Maple Leaf and KTT Phalaenopsis both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Maple Leaf's nylon housing is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound because of its stiffer plastic composition. While the Maple Leaf offers a duller and rounder sound, the Phalaenopsis provides a more clear and resonant sound profile. Whether you prefer a softer, deeper sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both housing materials offer distinct auditory experiences.
In terms of aesthetics, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate housing stands out for its translucency, making it a popular choice for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's nylon housing may not provide the same visual appeal but still offers a quality sound experience. While both switches excel in different areas when it comes to housing materials, they each cater to different preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize sound quality or visual aesthetics, both the Maple Leaf and Phalaenopsis have unique qualities to offer in their housing materials.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note how each component contributes to the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on a switch, while the top housing influences the sound when you release a key. With the Maple Leaf utilizing nylon for both top and bottom housing and the Phalaenopsis featuring polycarbonate for both components, users can expect consistent sound profiles throughout each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is clear that the Maple Leaf requires a heavier touch than the Phalaenopsis. The Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. This means that the Maple Leaf will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Phalaenopsis will offer a lighter touch ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we can see that the Maple Leaf has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the Phalaenopsis has a travel distance of 4mm. The Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance compared to the Phalaenopsis. The traditional travel distance falls around 4.0mm, making the Phalaenopsis more in line with this standard. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Maple Leaf, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Phalaenopsis. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer different auditory experiences. The Maple Leaf's sound profile is not specified, while the Phalaenopsis switch is known for its bassy and thocky sound. The bassy sound provides a deeper and richer tone during key presses, while the thocky sound produces a satisfying deep thud or soft knock. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard type and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have specific information available on its tactile feel. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a stepped tactile feel. Stepped switches provide a two-stage tactile feedback, with a more mild sensation compared to switches with a single large bump throughout the keystroke. This allows users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, enhancing the typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Maple Leaf and KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switches offer different sound and feel experiences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. The Maple Leaf's qualities are not specified, but it offers its own unique characteristics. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch is known for its beautiful design and light actuation force, ensuring comfortable typing and reducing finger fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch or the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a switch with no specific standout feature, the Maple Leaf may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and are looking for a switch that offers a beautiful translucent design, effortless typing experience with a 37g actuation force, and a discernible tactile bump, then the Phalaenopsis would be the better option. Consider the sound and feel characteristics described for each switch to make an informed decision based on your individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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