Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Dareu Snow offer distinct experiences for users. The Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that is best known for its none characteristic, while the Snow is a linear switch that stands out with its innovative use of POM material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature when typing. The Maple Leaf is categorized as tactile, making it a versatile option for those who prefer tactile feedback, while the Snow is categorized as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy, offering a smoother typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Dareu Snow, there are some key differences to consider. The Maple Leaf uses a nylon top housing, which provides a deep and dull sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Snow features a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability, creating a clacky sound. While both materials offer different sound profiles, the Snow's POK material stands out for its exceptional strength and wear resistance compared to the Maple Leaf's nylon.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Maple Leaf and the Snow use nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. The softer plastic of the nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Despite the similarities in bottom housing materials, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary slightly between the Maple Leaf and the Snow, adding a unique touch to the typing experience.
While the housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches differ between the Maple Leaf and the Snow, they both provide an enriching typing experience. The Maple Leaf's use of nylon creates a deep and full sound profile, while the Snow's POK material offers smoothness and durability with a clacky sound. Both materials have their own unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience, even though the impact of the top and bottom housing materials may vary slightly. In the end, whether you choose the Maple Leaf or the Snow, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch. The Maple Leaf requires 55 grams of force to actuate a key and 65 grams to bottom out, while the Snow only needs 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. This means that the Maple Leaf switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, while the Snow switch offers a lighter touch for smoother keystrokes. Some users may prefer the Maple Leaf for its heavier feel, which can reduce accidental key presses, while others may enjoy the lighter touch of the Snow for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance. This ensures a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch you choose. The travel distance is relatively average compared to other mechanical switches, providing a nice balance between key actuation and tactile feedback. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a moderate travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 known for its quiet operation and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is recognized for its thocky sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying typing sound. The Snow switch's innovative use of POK material in its top housing and stem contributes to its unique sound signature, providing a deeper tone compared to the Maple Leaf switch.
In terms of feel, the Maple Leaf switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, leaving its tactile feedback subjective to personal preference. Meanwhile, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like and lively feedback sensation that enhances the typing experience. This bouncy feeling can contribute to a more dynamic and engaging typing experience for users who prefer a more responsive switch.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Maple Leaf switch provides a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Snow switch stands out with its deep thocky sound and bouncy feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, ensuring a customizable and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the bottom out force, sound, and feel preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch with no particular standout feature, the Maple Leaf may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, enjoy a thocky sound profile with a deeper sound signature, and like a bouncy feel when typing, the Snow switch with its innovative material composition may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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