Outemu Maple Leaf vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both switches offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Maple Leaf switch is known for its tactile feedback, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a medium tactile feel with a quieter typing experience. The Maple Leaf switch is categorized as tactile, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) is categorized as buttery, mild, stepped, muted, subtle, and polished. Depending on your preference for a more pronounced tactile response or a quieter typing experience, each switch has its own set of advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Maple Leaf and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) both feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. However, while the Maple Leaf's top housing is also made of nylon, the Silent Bluish White (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of aesthetics and sound qualities, the nylon bottom housings of both the Maple Leaf and the Silent Bluish White (V2) offer similar characteristics, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the difference lies in their top housings, with the Maple Leaf using nylon and the Silent Bluish White (V2) using polycarbonate. While nylon top housings create a duller and rounder sound, polycarbonate top housings produce a sharper and crisper sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. This contrast in top housing materials allows for individuals to choose a switch depending on the sound profile they prefer.
When pressing down on switches with different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of each housing material will be felt differently. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This means that the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials can greatly influence the overall typing experience, allowing users to tailor their preferences based on the desired sound profile and feel of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, it is evident that the Maple Leaf switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch. The Maple Leaf switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Maple Leaf switch, while individuals looking for a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions may prefer the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. The Maple Leaf has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Bluish White (V2), which may provide a slightly faster key press for users. However, the 0.2 mm difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be very noticeable to the average user, and both switches would provide similar results in terms of responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference and how one feels about the slight difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 provided, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch is described as producing a muted sound. A muted sound in a mechanical keyboard switch indicates a softer and quieter typing experience compared to a regular switch. This means that the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch will be less likely to disturb others around you, making it suitable for use in quiet environments such as offices or shared living spaces.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch is described as having a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel. These descriptors suggest that the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch offers a smooth, gentle, and refined typing experience with a slight resistance that is comfortable for most users. The stepped feature also indicates that there is a distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation, adding to the overall typing feel of the switch.
In conclusion, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch stands out for its quiet and comfortable typing experience with a medium level of tactility. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch does not have specific descriptors provided for sound or feel. If you are looking for a switch that provides a muted sound and a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished typing feel, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch would be a suitable choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Remember that the overall typing experience also depends on factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a switch that offers a unique typing experience without a specific reputation, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch may be the one for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter bottom out force and a switch that is best known for its medium tactile feel with a quiet operation, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience, noise levels, and the specific feel you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch. Consider these factors when choosing between the Outemu Maple Leaf and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches.
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