Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Kailh Sage offer unique typing experiences. The Maple Leaf is a tactile switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and comfortable feel. On the other hand, the Sage is a clicky switch, providing a satisfyingly audible and tactile feedback with each keypress. The Maple Leaf is best suited for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience, while the Sage is ideal for individuals who enjoy a pronounced clicky sound with their keystrokes. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Kailh Sage, we see a significant difference in the top housing material used. The Maple Leaf utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Sage opts for a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile attributed to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the choice between the two ultimately depends on the desired sound profile and aesthetics, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate's clear and resonant sound.
On the other hand, when examining the bottom housing materials of the Maple Leaf and the Sage, we find that both switches share the same nylon material for the bottom housing. This results in a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound for both switches. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that the overall typing experience and sound produced by these switches may be more comparable despite the differences in their top housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of a mechanical keyboard. While the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Kailh Sage may differ in their top housing materials, the use of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches provides a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. However, the contrasting characteristics of nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches offer users the option to tailor their keyboard experience to their preferred sound profile, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound and polycarbonate delivering a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between the Maple Leaf and the Sage will come down to personal preference and desired sound aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Maple Leaf has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Sage's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force in the medium-heavy range, with the Maple Leaf requiring 65 grams and the Sage 70 grams. This means that while the Maple Leaf may provide a slightly lighter typing experience in terms of actuation force, both switches offer a similar level of resistance when fully pressed down. Some users may prefer the Maple Leaf for its lighter actuation force, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the Sage for its slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is shorter at 3.3 mm compared to the Kailh Sage clicky switch at 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Maple Leaf offers a slightly shorter press due to its 3.3 mm travel distance. Gamers looking for a quicker response time may prefer the Maple Leaf, as the shorter travel distance allows for faster key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more pronounced key press may opt for the Kailh Sage with its longer 3.6 mm travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25.
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 tactile switch is known for its quiet operation, lacking the distinct clickiness found in the Kailh Sage clicky switch. The Sage switch, on the other hand, offers a crunchy and satisfying click with each keystroke, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Keep in mind that sound can vary depending on various factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Maple Leaf switch lacks specific descriptors, making it harder to compare to the detailed characteristics of the Kailh Sage clicky switch. The Sage switch is described as invigorating, providing a firm actuation force and a snappy feel that enhances the typing experience. Its sharp tactile bump offers high feedback intensity, creating a pronounced sensation with each keypress. This tactile feedback may be more satisfying for users who prefer a more pronounced typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with less pronounced feedback, the Maple Leaf switch may be more suitable. However, if you enjoy a distinct clicky feel with sharp tactile feedback, the Kailh Sage switch would be a better option. Keep in mind that individual preferences, along with factors such as keycap choice and keyboard construction, will also play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and are not particularly concerned with specific characteristics like sound or feel, the Maple Leaf may be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch that offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a sharp and crunchy sound, the Sage switch would be more fitting for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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