Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Kailh Plum are two popular options to consider. The Maple Leaf is known for its unique characteristics, being categorized as a tactile switch. On the other hand, the Plum stands out for its hefty feel without a significant tactile bump, falling under the category of a tactile switch as well. While the Maple Leaf offers a tactile experience, the Plum brings a distinctive weightiness with a more subtle tactile feel. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Kailh Plum switches, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. However, where they differ is in their top housing material. The Maple Leaf features a nylon top housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the Plum's polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material is stiffer, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and Kailh Plum switches provide a unique typing experience thanks to their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This ensures that regardless of the switch chosen, users can enjoy a satisfying typing experience with the tactile feedback provided by the nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Kailh Plum switches ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding sound profile. The Maple Leaf's nylon top housing offers a softer and rounder sound, while the Plum's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches bring unique qualities to the typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the overall sound profile, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a sharper and crisper sound, there is a housing material option that will cater to individual preferences in typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, we can see some differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Maple Leaf has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Plum, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Plum is heavier at 70 grams compared to the Maple Leaf's 65 grams. Both switches have a medium-heavy feel, but the Plum may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Maple Leaf's lower actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force in their typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Kailh Plum has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, you may lean towards the Kailh Plum, whereas if you prefer a slightly shallower key press for faster responses, the Outemu Maple Leaf would be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience due to their relatively close travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Kailh Plum switches provide a neutral and enjoyable typing experience. The sound profile of both switches is not too loud or too quiet, making them suitable for various settings. However, it is essential to note that the sound of a switch can 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 switch lacks specific descriptors, suggesting a more subjective typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch is described as mild and stepped. The mild feel of the Plum switch offers a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the stepped design provides a two-stage typing sensation, allowing for a more nuanced feel during keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and Kailh Plum switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Maple Leaf switch may provide a more subjective typing experience, the Plum switch stands out with its hefty feel and distinct lack of a pronounced tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing feel and sound profile that each user desires.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Maple Leaf with 65 grams may be a better fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Plum with 70 grams may be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and moderate actuation force, the Plum could be a good choice. However, if you are looking for a more gentle typing experience with a stepped feel, the Plum may be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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