Outemu Maple Leaf vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a tactile mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Outemu Maple Leaf and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that is best known for its revolutionary design and smooth actuation. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is also a tactile switch but stands out for its large tactile bump, offering an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. While the Maple Leaf is categorized as [], the Polaris Purple falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique 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
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 Purple, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Maple Leaf utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast in materials leads to distinct acoustic experiences when typing on switches that incorporate each housing type.
While the Maple Leaf and the Polaris Purple both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, there are similarities in their construction as well. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. Similarly, both switches incorporate translucent polycarbonate in their top housings, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound profile, particularly when coupled with RGB lighting. Despite these similarities, the differences in the top housing materials still result in distinct sound characteristics between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf and the SP-Star Polaris Purple ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Maple Leaf provides a duller and rounder sound due to its nylon top and bottom housings, while the Polaris Purple offers a crisper and higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a sharper, more resonant sound, these differences in housing materials give each switch its own unique auditory experience.
Weight
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch both fall within the medium-heavy range in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Polaris Purple has an actuation force of an unknown amount and a bottom out force of 67 grams. In terms of weight, the Maple Leaf is slightly lighter than the Polaris Purple due to its lower bottom out force. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Maple Leaf for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Polaris Purple for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance compared to the Polaris Purple switch. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, as it requires less distance for the keypress to register. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Polaris Purple switch may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Purple 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 Purple 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 does not have a distinct reputation, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is known for its snappy sound profile. The neutral sound profile of the Polaris Purple makes it suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Maple Leaf switch does not have any specific characteristics mentioned, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. The mild tactile bump of the Polaris Purple switch offers a gentle typing sensation that appeals to a wide range of users. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch results in smooth key travel with reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Maple Leaf and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Maple Leaf switch's characteristics are not clearly defined, the Polaris Purple switch stands out for its exhilarating tactile bump and snappy sound profile, along with its mild and polished feel. Depending on your preferences, you can expect a more versatile typing experience with the Polaris Purple switch compared to the Maple Leaf switch, which may offer a more neutral and unknown experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switches and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches, consider the typing experience you're looking for. If you prefer a switch with a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you want a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more neutral sound profile, the Maple Leaf might be the way to go. Additionally, if you prefer a more gentle and polished typing experience, the Polaris Purple's mild and polished characteristics might be more appealing to you compared to the Maple Leaf. Think about what qualities are most important to you in a switch and choose accordingly.
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