Outemu Maple Leaf vs. KTT Semi Mute

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and KTT Semi Mute offer unique qualities to suit different preferences. The Maple Leaf switch is a tactile switch, providing a satisfying tactile bump when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is a linear switch, offering a smooth and quiet typing experience. The Maple Leaf switch is best known for its tactile feedback, while the KTT Semi Mute is renowned for its silent operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches have their strengths - the Maple Leaf for tactile enthusiasts and the KTT Semi Mute for those seeking a silent typing experience. 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

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Maple Leaf and the KTT Semi Mute differ in their housing materials, with the Maple Leaf featuring a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Semi Mute has a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The Maple Leaf's nylon housing material leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as the stiffer plastic allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the polycarbonate material in the Semi Mute's housing is beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency, providing an aesthetic advantage.

Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and the KTT Semi Mute aim to enhance the overall typing experience. While the Maple Leaf's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Essentially, both materials contribute to improving the quality of sound produced by the switches, albeit in different ways. Whether a user prefers a duller and rounder sound from the nylon housing or a clearer and more resonant sound from the polycarbonate housing will depend on personal preference and typing style.

In terms of functionality, the impact of the housing material is experienced differently depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing of the switch. The qualities brought by the bottom housing material will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the qualities of the top housing material will influence the sound when a key is released. Therefore, understanding the role that each housing material plays in the overall typing experience is crucial for users looking to tailor their keyboard setup to their preferences. Ultimately, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and the KTT Semi Mute offer unique characteristics that cater to varying preferences in sound and typing feel.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is evident that the Maple Leaf has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Semi Mute's lighter 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Maple Leaf requires 65 grams, while the Semi Mute needs 58 grams. This makes the Maple Leaf overall heavier in both aspects. For those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Maple Leaf would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may find the Semi Mute more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it a bit shorter than the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Maple Leaf's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Semi Mute's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those seeking a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so the choice ultimately depends on personal preference. Overall, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker key presses, the Outemu Maple Leaf may be the better option, while those who enjoy a longer travel distance may find the KTT Semi Mute more to their liking.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, the Maple Leaf switch is described as having a sound quality that is unknown, while the Semi Mute switch is known for its muted and neutral sound profile. The Semi Mute switch excels in providing a softer and quieter typing experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a noise-free environment. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Maple Leaf switch is described as unknown, while the KTT Semi Mute switch is noted for its buttery and mild typing sensation. The buttery feel of the Semi Mute switch indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing feel. On the other hand, the mild characteristic of the switch provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, striking a balance between different typing preferences.

Overall, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Maple Leaf switch provides an unknown sound and feel profile, the Semi Mute switch stands out for its quiet operation and buttery typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfactory results, providing a choice between a standard tactile switch and a noise-free linear switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference for typing experience.

Conclusion

Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, you should consider your priorities. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with no specific standout features, then the Maple Leaf could be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience and enjoy a linear actuation with advanced dampening technology, the KTT Semi Mute switch would be the ideal option. The Semi Mute switch offers a softer, more muted sound profile and a buttery, mild typing feel, making it perfect for those who desire a noise-free environment and a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn more