Outemu Maple Leaf vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, a linear switch. The Maple Leaf switch is best known for its unique tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when typing for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch is favored by those who prefer a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. The Maple Leaf switch is categorized as a 'tactile' switch, while the Polaris Gray switch falls into categories such as 'low-pitched', 'neutral', 'mild', 'thocky', and 'polished'. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on your preference for tactile feedback or a smoother 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
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles due to the differences in their composition. The Maple Leaf's nylon top and bottom housing contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a sharper and crisper sound profile, attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. While both materials have their own sound characteristics, they both play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience of the switches.
Furthermore, the aesthetic appeal of the housing materials also sets them apart from each other. The Maple Leaf's nylon housing may not offer the translucent quality that the polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray provides. This transparency is particularly beneficial for users who enjoy utilizing RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual experience of the keyboard. However, both housing materials serve their purpose in providing a solid foundation for the switch components and contribute to the overall durability and performance of the switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf and the SP-Star Polaris Gray housing materials boils down to personal preference and desired typing experience. While the Maple Leaf offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon housing, the Polaris Gray provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate housing. Both materials have their own unique advantages, and users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either option. Whether it be for sound preference or aesthetic appeal, both housing materials are sure to enhance the overall performance of the switches they are paired with.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that the Maple Leaf has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Polaris Gray's unknown actuation force. However, the Polaris Gray has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams in comparison to the Maple Leaf's 65 grams. This means that the Maple Leaf may provide a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Polaris Gray offers a more substantial push feel. Both switches fall under the medium-heavy category, providing a balance between actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Maple Leaf offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorable choice for gamers looking for fast inputs. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences for key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key responsiveness and depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 is known for offering a quiet typing experience, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more discreet sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched and thocky sound, providing a deep and satisfying auditory feedback when typing. However, it's important to note that the sound of both switches can be influenced by external factors like the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Maple Leaf switch does not have a specific description provided, but the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is known for its mild and polished typing experience. This indicates that the Polaris Gray switches offer a gentle and smooth keypress, thanks to their refined finish and reduced friction. The feel of a switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, and the Polaris Gray switches seem to excel in providing a comfortable and easy-to-use feel for a wide range of users.
Taking into consideration the information provided, it is evident that the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Maple Leaf is known for its quiet sound profile and unspecified feel, the Polaris Gray switches stand out for their low-pitched and thocky sound, as well as their mild and polished typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for typing sound and feel, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different user needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will boil down to individual preferences for sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switches might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and specific sound and feel descriptors, the Maple Leaf tactile switch could be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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