Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Outemu Phoenix 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, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch. The Maple Leaf switch is known for its tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, making it a great choice for typists who prefer a more subtle sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch stands out for its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a unique and distinctive click sound with each press. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Maple Leaf and the Outemu Phoenix both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Maple Leaf utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix features polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffer plastic material. While the Maple Leaf promotes a duller and rounder sound, the Phoenix leans towards a more clear and resonant sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Outemu Phoenix, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. The nylon housing of the Maple Leaf enhances the overall sound profile with a deeper and fuller sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix produces a sharper and crisper sound, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound with each keystroke. Regardless of the material used, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Outemu Phoenix also play a role in the overall look of the switches. The translucency of polycarbonate used in the Phoenix's housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the solid nylon housing of the Maple Leaf offers a classic and understated look. While the housing materials contribute to the sound profile of the switches, they also serve to enhance the visual appeal and overall typing experience for users.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Maple Leaf has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. In contrast, the Phoenix has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. The Maple Leaf requires a slightly higher force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Phoenix, making it the heavier of the two switches. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Phoenix for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier Maple Leaf for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Despite the fact that they have identical travel distances, they offer different typing experiences due to their tactile and clicky mechanisms. The Maple Leaf switch provides a tactile feedback when pressed, giving a bump sensation to the user, while the Phoenix switch offers an audible click sound upon actuation. Both switches are suitable for different preferences, with the Maple Leaf being preferred by those who enjoy a tactile feel, and the Phoenix being favored by users who enjoy an audible clicky sound when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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 offers a quiet typing experience that is gentle on the ears. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a unique and satisfying crunchy sound that is reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. Depending on personal preference, some may find the quiet operation of the Maple Leaf more appealing, while others may enjoy the satisfying click of the Phoenix switch.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch offers a standard typing experience without any particular standout qualities. The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, on the other hand, provides a polished feel that is smooth and refined, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished finish enhances the typing experience, making it more enjoyable for those who prefer a sleek and precise feel while typing.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that they offer distinct sound and feel profiles. The Maple Leaf provides a quiet and standard typing experience, while the Phoenix offers a unique crunchy sound and a polished feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the two switches to tailor their mechanical keyboard setup to their liking. Both switches offer quality performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you appreciate a unique, sparkling sound profile with a crunchy feel, then the Phoenix clicky switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a polished feel, the Maple Leaf tactile switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and the experience you are seeking from your mechanical keyboard switches. Consider these factors carefully before making your choice.
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