Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Quinn, also a tactile switch. The Maple Leaf switch is known for its... (fill in with specific details about the Maple Leaf switch). On the other hand, the Quinn switches offer a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, making each keystroke a rich and immersive experience. While both switches offer tactile feedback, they differ in terms of sound profile and overall feel. 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
59g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Gateron Quinn are both made of nylon, which is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its soft and sound-absorbing qualities. This similarity means that typing on switches using either of these materials will result in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made of harder plastics. This commonality ensures that users can enjoy a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile when using either the Maple Leaf or the Quinn switches.
However, while both the Maple Leaf and Quinn switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, the distribution of these materials may differ. The qualities brought by the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This distinction in how the housing materials influence the typing experience may result in subtle differences in keypress feel and sound between the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Gateron Quinn switches.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and tactile feel of the typing experience. Both the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Gateron Quinn switches offer the benefits of using nylon housing, providing users with a deeper and fuller sound profile. While there may be slight variations in how the top and bottom housing materials affect the typing experience, users can expect a similar overall experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Maple Leaf has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Quinn's 59 grams, while the bottom out force is also slightly lighter for the Maple Leaf at 65 grams compared to the Quinn's 67 grams. This difference in force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience for the Maple Leaf switch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a slightly heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer more resistance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar level of tactile feedback and performance, making them suitable choices for different preferences based on weight preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, the Quinn switch has a slightly longer travel distance than the Maple Leaf switch, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 does not have a specific descriptor, making it difficult to pinpoint its sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is known for its deep and resonant sound, giving users a bassy and clacky experience with each keystroke. The Maple Leaf switch may offer a more neutral or unremarkable sound compared to the unique and immersive sound profile of the Quinn switch.
In terms of feel, the Maple Leaf switch lacks specific descriptors for its tactile feel. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. This suggests that the Quinn switch provides a dynamic and smooth typing experience with a medium amount of tactility, giving users a satisfying and responsive feel with each key press. The Maple Leaf switch may not offer the same level of tactile feedback and smoothness as the Quinn switch.
Overall, based on the available information, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch stands out for its unique combination of crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile, providing users with a distinct and enjoyable typing experience. In comparison, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch may offer a more standard or neutral typing feel and sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with the Quinn switch likely providing a more engaging and immersive typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a unique, rich sound profile, you may want to consider the Gateron Quinn switches. These switches offer a crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound that can enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force without any specific sound characteristics, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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