Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura. The Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that is best known for its unique qualities, while the Purple Sakura stands out for its introduction of tactile switches with a snappy response and a buttery downstroke. The Maple Leaf is categorized as [], while the Purple Sakura falls under the categories of 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Snappy'. Both switches offer different characteristics that may appeal to different users, whether you prefer a more subtle tactile feel or a snappy response with a smooth downstroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

Sarokeys Purple Sakura Tactile

$3.10 per 10

$4.00

$3.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Maple Leaf and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. This material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. However, the Maple Leaf features a nylon top housing, while the Purple Sakura uses a polycarbonate top housing. The difference in materials leads to a distinct contrast in sound profiles - the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing creates a softer, more muted sound, whereas the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound.

Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura's top housing allows for a clear housing that is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. This material's translucency enhances the visual appeal of the switch, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their setup with vibrant lighting effects. In contrast, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing may not offer the same visual impact as the Purple Sakura, but it still delivers a satisfying sound experience with its deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials may come down to personal preference - whether you prioritize aesthetics or sound quality in your keyboard build.

While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housings, the split between the bottom and top housing materials in the Maple Leaf and Purple Sakura results in a nuanced typing experience. The qualities of each housing material come into play when pressing down on a key, as the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a more dynamic typing experience, with the Maple Leaf offering a softer, more rounded sound profile thanks to its nylon top housing, and the Purple Sakura providing a crisper, more resonant sound due to its polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences based on their housing materials.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, we find some differences between the two. The Maple Leaf switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 50 grams, making it slightly harder to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Maple Leaf requires 65 grams of force while the Purple Sakura only needs 60 grams. This means that the Maple Leaf switch offers a more substantial typing experience overall, with both its actuation and bottom out forces being on the heavier side. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Maple Leaf has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Purple Sakura's 3.2 mm. While the difference is minimal, it may still be noticeable to those who are particularly sensitive to such variations. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prioritize a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel, or opt for the slightly shorter travel distance for quicker key presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, making it harder to compare directly to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch. The Purple Sakura switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which suggests a moderate and inoffensive sound when typing. Sound is subjective and can be affected by various factors, so personal preference plays a significant role in determining the overall typing experience.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf does not have a specific descriptor provided. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch is described as offering a buttery downstroke, a mild and gentle typing experience, and a snappy response. The combination of these characteristics indicates that the Purple Sakura switch provides a smooth and effortless typing sensation with a balanced level of tactility.

Overall, comparing the subjective qualities of the Outemu Maple Leaf and Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switches, we can see that the Purple Sakura switch offers a more detailed description of its sound and feel characteristics. While the Maple Leaf switch may provide a different typing experience, both switches seem to offer a pleasant and versatile option for users looking for tactile switches. It is essential to consider personal preferences, typing style, and intended use when selecting between these two switches to ensure you get the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the bottom out force and the overall typing experience you prefer. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and a more traditional typing feel, the Maple Leaf may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams and a switch with a snappy response and decadently buttery downstroke, the Purple Sakura might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Sarokeys Purple Sakura Tactile

$4.00

$3.15 per 10

Learn more