Outemu Maple Leaf vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and TTC Speed Silver stand out as popular options. The Maple Leaf is a tactile switch, known for its distinct feedback and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is a linear switch, favored by those who prioritize speed and precision in their typing experience. The Maple Leaf provides a satisfying tactile bump while typing, whereas the Speed Silver offers a smooth keystroke with minimal resistance, allowing for fast and effortless actuation. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the TTC Speed Silver, the main difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Maple Leaf utilizes a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the Speed Silver is advantageous for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf offers a deeper sound experience.
Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which provides a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches allows for the absorption of sound, resulting in a more muted and round sound when compared to harder plastic materials. This consistency in bottom housing material between the two switches ensures that typists will experience a similar sound and feel when typing on either the Maple Leaf or the Speed Silver. However, the different top housing materials present in the switches contribute to each switch's unique sound profile and overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf and TTC Speed Silver will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, the top housing materials – nylon for the Maple Leaf and polycarbonate for the Speed Silver – offer distinct differences in sound characteristics. Typists looking for a deeper and fuller sound may prefer the Maple Leaf with its nylon top housing, while those seeking a sharper and crisper sound may opt for the Speed Silver with its polycarbonate top housing. Each switch's housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience, catering to different preferences in switch options.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Maple Leaf is heavier while the Speed Silver is lighter. The Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, putting it in the medium-light category. This means that the Maple Leaf will provide a more substantial typing experience, while the Speed Silver will offer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances, making them ideal for those who prefer quicker response times, especially gamers. However, the Speed Silver has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel compared to the Maple Leaf. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback. Both switches offer similar results in terms of performance, with the Speed Silver offering a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is known for its smooth and refined sound profile, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of uses. When it comes to feel, the Maple Leaf's qualities are unknown, while the Speed Silver is known for providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that the Speed Silver switch offers a more gentle and smooth key travel compared to other switches.
In conclusion, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a smooth and refined sound profile, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch may be the better option. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a tactile typing experience without any specific standout features, the Maple Leaf switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile, the Speed Silver switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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