Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Durock POM T1 both offer a tactile typing experience, but with some key differences. The Maple Leaf switch is best known for its unique feature and falls into the category of tactile switches. On the other hand, the POM T1 switch is renowned for its maximum tactility, offering a punchy typing experience with sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack. Categorized as resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, the POM T1 switch is a great choice for those who value a tactile typing feel. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits 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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Maple Leaf and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Maple Leaf utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) uses POM for both its top and bottom housings, creating an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer similar characteristics in terms of sound profile. The nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf and the POM top housing of the POM T1 both contribute to a deeper sound profile when typing. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Maple Leaf and the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 create a fuller sound profile that is more muted in nature. Overall, both switches provide a unique typing experience with their respective housing materials.
When comparing the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is evident that the qualities of the bottom housing material play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The softer nature of nylon in the Maple Leaf and POM in the POM T1 absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder bottom-out sound. Conversely, the top housing material has more influence on the sound when releasing a key, with nylon in the Maple Leaf and POM in the POM T1 contributing to a pleasing and unique sound profile. Ultimately, the housing materials of both switches work together to create a distinct typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is evident that they both fall into the medium-heavy category. The Maple Leaf requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the POM T1 has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of weight, making them suitable for users who prefer a more substantial push feel. The slight difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly heavier typing experience with the POM T1 compared to the Maple Leaf. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference, whether one prefers a slightly lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is clear that the Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Maple Leaf's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the POM T1's longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer more depth. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, so choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 does not have a specific sound descriptor provided, so it is difficult to directly compare it with the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch. However, depending on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, the sound of the Maple Leaf switch may vary. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is described as resonant, offering a higher-pitched sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. This switch is clean and sharp in terms of sound, making it suitable for those who enjoy a punchy and distinct typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, similar to the sound aspect, the Maple Leaf switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. Therefore, it is challenging to directly compare its feel with the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch. The POM T1 (Sunflower) switch, however, is described as sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating. These descriptors highlight the high feedback intensity, medium tactile feel, super responsiveness, and immersive typing sensation that this switch offers. This makes the POM T1 (Sunflower) a popular choice for those seeking a tactile switch with a prominent and satisfying feedback.
In conclusion, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. While specific sound and feel descriptors are not provided for the Maple Leaf switch, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is known for its resonant sound profile and sharp, invigorating tactile feel. Both switches cater to individuals looking for a tactile typing experience, but the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch stands out for its maximum tactility and pronounced feedback. Depending on personal preferences and usage scenarios, either of these switches can provide a rewarding typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Maple Leaf at 65 grams may be more suitable for you, whereas the POM T1 (Sunflower) at 67 grams offers a bit firmer feel. If you value maximum tactility and a sharp tactile bump, the POM T1 (Sunflower) would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile or an invigorating typing experience, the Maple Leaf might be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to whether you prioritize bottom out force, sound, or feel in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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