Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The Maple Leaf is known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is praised for its innovative semi-silent design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The Maple Leaf is categorized as a tactile switch, while the Semi-Silent Linear falls under the linear switch category. For those who prefer a more subdued, neutral, and buttery typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear may be the ideal choice. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, where the switches differ is in their top housing material. The Maple Leaf features a nylon top housing, while the Semi-Silent Linear uses a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Semi-Silent Linear creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing.
While both switches may share similar characteristics in their bottom housing material, the difference in their top housing materials creates a noticeable distinction in sound profiles. The Maple Leaf's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Semi-Silent Linear's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Semi-Silent Linear's top housing allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic dimension to the switch that is not present in the Maple Leaf.
In terms of typing experience, the bottom housing material of each switch will have a more direct impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will affect the sound when a key is released. This means that the Maple Leaf will offer a softer and more absorbent typing experience due to its nylon top and bottom housing, while the Semi-Silent Linear will provide a sharper and crisper typing experience with its polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch. The Maple Leaf requires 55 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear does not specify an actuation force but has a bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it in the medium range. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Semi-Silent Linear, while users seeking a more substantial push feel may lean towards the heavier Maple Leaf. Both switches offer unique advantages, with the Maple Leaf providing a more tactile experience and the Semi-Silent Linear offering a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Outemu Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. The Maple Leaf's 3.3 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear's 3.7 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth and may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Both options offer varying degrees of travel distance to cater to different preferences, so selecting the right switch ultimately depends on individual typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 tactile switch is not known for any specific sound quality, indicating it may have a relatively standard or neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is praised for its subdued sound, offering a quieter topping-out noise while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. This makes it a great option for those looking for a more subtle and less intrusive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch does not have any specific descriptors provided, suggesting that it may fall within a standard range of tactile feedback. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, it is noted as being snappy, which means it is highly responsive, providing a lively typing sensation. Moreover, the switch is also described as buttery and polished, indicating a smooth and refined keystroke experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that they offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Maple Leaf may provide a standard sound profile and tactile feedback, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its subdued and quiet sound with a silky smooth feel. If you are looking for a more traditional typing experience with moderate sound and feel, the Maple Leaf may be a suitable option. In contrast, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a gentle and responsive feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfactory results, but it will depend on your personal preference and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not too concerned about sound, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch may be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lower bottom out force and a more subdued and semi-silent sound profile, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding key feel, sound, and typing experience. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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