Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Jerrzi Poseidon
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Jerrzi Poseidon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, and the Jerrzi Poseidon, a linear switch. The Maple Leaf switch is revered for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying physical sensation when pressed. On the other hand, the Poseidon switch is lauded for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, ideal for those who prefer a seamless typing experience. While both switches have their own unique characteristics, ultimately the choice between them comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
pom
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
stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Maple Leaf and the Jerrzi Poseidon both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Maple Leaf utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound overall. In contrast, the Poseidon uses POM for both its top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While both switches offer pleasing sound profiles, the difference in material leads to a distinct typing experience for each.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Jerrzi Poseidon provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Maple Leaf work together to create a cohesive, deep sound when typing. Similarly, the POM top and bottom housing of the Poseidon offer a consistent and muted sound profile. This similarity in results showcases how different materials can still produce comparable outcomes when it comes to typing on these switches.
When comparing the top and bottom housing of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Jerrzi Poseidon, it becomes apparent that each material contributes differently to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of each switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can influence not only the sound profile but also the tactile feedback of a mechanical switch. Ultimately, whether nylon or POM is preferred will depend on personal preference for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch. The Maple Leaf requires 55 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In comparison, the Poseidon only needs 40 grams to actuate a keystroke, but the bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Poseidon may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use, while the heavier force of the Maple Leaf offers a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when compared to more traditional 4.0 mm travel distances. Gamers may prefer the Maple Leaf for its slightly shorter travel distance, as it can result in faster response times. On the other hand, the Poseidon offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference for either a quicker, more responsive typing experience or a more deliberate, satisfying key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Poseidon has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poseidon for $3.59.
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 is known for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer minimal noise while typing. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch is also known for its quiet operation, providing a similar experience to the Maple Leaf in terms of sound.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is praised for its satisfying tactile feedback, giving typists a noticeable bump when a key is actuated. Conversely, the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, providing a different typing experience compared to the Maple Leaf.
Taking all aspects into consideration, both the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a quiet typing experience with tactile feedback, the Maple Leaf may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and linear keystroke without any tactile feedback, the Poseidon switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, it is important to try out different switches to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, you should consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the Maple Leaf may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, the Poseidon could be more appealing. Additionally, consider the characteristics that each switch is best known for and how they align with your preferences. Lastly, think about the sound and feel of the switches, as these factors can greatly impact your typing experience. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual preferences and typing style. Choose wisely to make your keyboard experience truly satisfying.