Outemu Maple Leaf vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, and the KTT Purple Click, a clicky switch, offer unique features and experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The Maple Leaf switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch is known for its signature high-pitched click sound that adds a level of excitement to each keystroke. While the Maple Leaf offers a more subtle typing experience, the Purple Click delivers a more audibly engaging one. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the KTT Purple Click, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material. The Maple Leaf utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Purple Click features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in materials affects the overall auditory experience of typing on these switches, with the Maple Leaf offering a rounder sound and the Purple Click providing a more resonant sound, especially with RGB lighting.
Interestingly, both the Maple Leaf and the Purple Click share a nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite having the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still have distinct sound profiles due to the differences in their top housing materials. This highlights how the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings can impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of a switch.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Outemu Maple Leaf and the KTT Purple Click can significantly influence the overall typing experience and sound characteristics of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the KTT Purple Click clicky switch's lighter actuation force of 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Maple Leaf requires 65 grams, which is heavier than the Purple Click's 55 grams. This means that the Maple Leaf switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Purple Click switch provides a lighter touch for smoother keystrokes. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, but the Maple Leaf is on the heavier side, while the Purple Click is on the lighter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and desired level of force for key actuation.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Maple Leaf offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Purple Click. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0mm being the standard. Gamers may prefer the Maple Leaf for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Purple Click with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 switch is known for a yet-to-be-determined quality. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is described as having a signature high-pitched click that is both satisfying and crunchy, providing a resonant and immersive auditory experience. Depending on your preference, the Maple Leaf may offer a different sound profile than the Purple Click, which is more distinct and recognizable for its clicky nature.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is known for a yet-to-be-determined quality. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. Additionally, it provides a stepped tactile sensation, giving users a sense of pre-travel and post-travel in each keystroke. This can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more dynamic feel while typing.
Overall, the Outemu Maple Leaf and KTT Purple Click switches offer different subjective qualities that cater to varying preferences. While the Maple Leaf's sound and feel are yet to be determined, the Purple Click stands out for its high-pitched click and invigorating tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prefer a more subtle typing experience or a more pronounced and immersive one, you can choose between the two switches to achieve a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that can enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a switch with no specific standout feature, the Maple Leaf may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force, along with a high-pitched and satisfying click sound, and a more invigorating and stepped feel, then the Purple Click switch is the way to go. Consider your preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing needs.
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