Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Gateron Smoothie present intriguing options for users seeking different typing experiences. The Maple Leaf is a tactile switch, known for its precise feedback and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is a linear switch that boasts a buttery smooth keystroke with a thocky sound profile. While the Maple Leaf offers a satisfying tactile bump for those who prefer a more pronounced feel while typing, the Smoothie provides a quiet and silky typing experience that is ideal for users seeking a smoother touch. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Maple Leaf and the Gateron Smoothie differ in their housing materials, with the Maple Leaf utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housings, while the Smoothie opts for POM for both components. The Maple Leaf's nylon housing is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM housing creates a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. While both housing materials offer distinct sound profiles, they each contribute to a satisfying typing experience in their own way.
One key difference between the Maple Leaf and the Smoothie lies in the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, which means that the nylon bottom housing of the Maple Leaf will provide a different tactile experience compared to the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie. Conversely, the top housing of a switch plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf will have a distinct effect on the sound when keys are released, while the POM top housing of the Smoothie will offer a unique sound profile in this aspect.
Despite their differences, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Gateron Smoothie aim to enhance the typing experience through their housing materials. While the Maple Leaf's nylon housing may provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Smoothie's POM housing offers a more unique and muted sound. However, regardless of these variations, both switches ultimately prioritize creating an enjoyable typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the rounder sound of nylon or the more distinct sound of POM, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is clear that the Maple Leaf has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Smoothie. The Maple Leaf requires 55 grams of force to actuate a key and 65 grams of force to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Smoothie only needs 40 grams of force to actuate a key, with the bottom out force being unknown. The weight of the switch is an important factor to consider, as a lighter switch like the Smoothie may be preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions, while a heavier switch like the Maple Leaf can provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice 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 Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Smoothie has a longer travel distance compared to the Maple Leaf. The Maple Leaf's 3.3 mm travel distance provides a slightly shorter keypress, which may be preferred by gamers for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Smoothie's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth to the keypress, which some users may find more comfortable for typing or extended periods of use. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular for their responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 does not have a specific reputation or descriptor. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is known for its thocky sound signature, low-pitched tones, and subdued sound profile. This means that the Smoothie switch will offer a deeper, richer sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to the Maple Leaf switch. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction, keycaps, and overall setup.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch also does not have a specific reputation or descriptor for its typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is known for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel. This means that the Smoothie switch will provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation with minimal resistance. This is due to the switch's design and possibly the lubrication applied at the factory.
Overall, if one were to compare the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch based on the available information, it is clear that the Smoothie switch has a more defined reputation for sound and feel characteristics. While the Maple Leaf switch's qualities are unknown in these aspects, it's safe to assume that the Smoothie switch will provide a thocky, low-pitched sound and a buttery, creamy, or silky typing experience. If you are seeking a switch with these specific qualities, the Gateron Smoothie may be the better choice for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch that is known for a specific feature, the Maple Leaf could be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a bottom out force of None and are captivated by the thocky sound signature, exceptional smoothness, and lightweight touch of the Gateron Smoothie, then this switch may be more aligned with your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are seeking.
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