Outemu Maple Leaf vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star Duck, also a tactile switch. The Maple Leaf is best known for its category of None, while the Duck is praised for offering a more subtle tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile. The Maple Leaf switch provides a straightforward typing experience without any added features, while the Duck switch offers a more refined and polished feel with its neutral, mild, buttery, and polished characteristics. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the SP-Star Duck, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Maple Leaf utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its soft and sound-absorbing nature. In contrast, the Duck features a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffness and clarity. This contrast in sound profiles highlights the impact that different materials can have on the overall typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Maple Leaf and the Duck share the same housing material - nylon. This means that when it comes to typing on these switches, users can expect a similar experience in terms of the deep and full sound profile produced by the bottom housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound, providing a consistent typing experience across both switch models in this aspect.
When considering the overall impact of different housing materials on a switch, it is important to recognize how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This distinction is crucial to understanding how the housing materials of switches like the Maple Leaf and the Duck can shape the overall typing experience for users seeking specific sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is clear that the Maple Leaf has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Duck, whose actuation force is unspecified. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Maple Leaf requires 65 grams while the Duck requires 58 grams. This makes the Duck the lighter option in terms of overall force required for typing. The Maple Leaf provides a medium-heavy typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel, while the Duck offers a medium force that is more suitable for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a tactile response, but the Duck may provide a lighter touch preferred by those who type for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, we can see that the Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Duck's 4 mm. The Maple Leaf is ideal for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Duck's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distance, with the Maple Leaf providing a faster and more responsive feel, while the Duck offers a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is known for a neutral sound profile that is not overly loud or quiet, offering a moderate typing experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a clean and crispy sound with a gentle tactility, making it ideal for those seeking a more subtle typing experience. Both switches can deliver satisfying auditory feedback, but the Maple Leaf leans towards a moderate sound profile while the Duck offers a quieter and cleaner sound.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have specific descriptors available. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as mild, buttery, and polished. This indicates that the Duck switch offers a gentle and approachable typing experience with smooth and fluid keystrokes. The polished finish of the Duck switch results in reduced friction and a sleek typing sensation, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. While the specific feel of the Maple Leaf switch is unknown, it is likely to provide a more standard tactile typing experience compared to the more nuanced characteristics of the Duck switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and a standard typing experience, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a quieter sound with a gentle tactility and smooth key travel, the SP-Star Duck switch may be more appealing. Both switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to varying preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Experimenting with different switches can help you find the perfect match for your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a more neutral sound profile, the Maple Leaf may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more subtle tactile typing experience with a buttery and polished feel, the Duck switch would be a better fit. Consider your typing preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches to find the one that suits you best. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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