Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that is best known for providing a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro is a linear switch known for its snappy sound signature, adding a lively and crisp quality to typing. While the Maple Leaf offers a traditional tactile experience, the V3 Piano Pro provides a smooth actuation and pleasing auditory charm. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, both switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This commonality results in a similar typing experience for users of either switch, as nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that can be desirable for those looking for a quieter typing experience.
While both switches share the same housing material, the differences in design and construction may lead to subtle variations in the overall typing experience. The Maple Leaf's housing design may impact the sound profile when pressing down on a key, while the V3 Piano Pro's housing design could have a different impact on the sound when releasing a key. These nuances in design could result in slight differences in sound and feel for users who are more attuned to the specifics of their typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf and Akko V3 Piano Pro may come down to personal preference in terms of design and aesthetics, as both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their shared nylon housing material. Whether you prefer the sound profile created by the softer nylon material or appreciate the design elements of one switch over the other, both options provide a solid choice for those looking for a switch that offers a deep and full sound profile with a duller and rounder sound.
Weight
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Maple Leaf requires 65 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro only needs 55 grams. This makes the Maple Leaf switch overall heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the V3 Piano Pro switch. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Maple Leaf switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, if a lighter touch is preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, the V3 Piano Pro switch would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Maple Leaf. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to some users, so choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of the feel of the keys. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, allowing users to enjoy a fast and responsive typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer contrasting auditory experiences. The Maple Leaf switch is known for its silence which can be favored by users looking for a quiet typing experience, while the V3 Piano Pro switch is characterized by a clacky and resonant sound profile that adds a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. This difference in sound can significantly impact the overall typing experience and cater to different preferences. Additionally, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have specific descriptors mentioned, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a variety of tactile experiences. The V3 Piano Pro switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, providing users with a range of tactile sensations to choose from. The bouncy feel of the switch offers a spring-like feedback, while the creamy sensation delivers a smooth and buttery typing experience. A polished switch ensures a refined finish and reduced friction in key travel, whereas a silky switch enhances overall smoothness and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. These tactile qualities can play a crucial role in determining user comfort and satisfaction during prolonged typing sessions.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is evident that the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer distinct sound and feel experiences catered to different preferences. While the Maple Leaf switch provides a silent typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro switch delivers a snappy sound signature along with various tactile sensations like bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If a user enjoys a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Maple Leaf switch may be more suitable, while those looking for a lively sound and a variety of tactile sensations might prefer the V3 Piano Pro switch.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch, the Maple Leaf with a 65-gram bottom out force may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the V3 Piano Pro with a 55-gram bottom out force could be a better option. Additionally, if you enjoy a sharp, clacky sound and a bouncy, lively feel, the V3 Piano Pro may be the switch for you. However, if you prefer a smoother, more polished typing experience, the Maple Leaf might be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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