Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, and the Jwick Splash Brothers, a linear switch, offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Maple Leaf switch is best known for its tactile feedback, making it ideal for typists who prefer a noticeable bump when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switch, inspired by the NBA's dynamic duo Steph and Klay, is celebrated for its linear speed design, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience with a shorter activation and creamy sound signature. While the Maple Leaf switch is categorized as tactile, the Splash Brothers switch is categorized as having neutral, mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished characteristics. 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
48g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Jwick Splash Brothers, it is clear that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. However, the Maple Leaf uses nylon for the top housing as well, while the Splash Brothers utilizes polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Splash Brothers creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting.
Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material of nylon, the differences arise when looking at the top housing of the Outemu Maple Leaf and Jwick Splash Brothers. The use of nylon in the Maple Leaf's top housing, as in its bottom housing, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Splash Brothers leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting. This contrast in top housing materials demonstrates how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Interestingly, the differences between the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and Jwick Splash Brothers extend beyond just sound profile. The choice of housing material can impact not only the typing experience but also the aesthetics and functionality of a switch. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Splash Brothers, for example, allows for a clear housing that is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing may provide a more muted aesthetic but still contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials comes down to personal preference and desired outcomes for a mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is clear that they offer different weight options to cater to different preferences. The Maple Leaf has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Splash Brothers has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams, offering a lighter typing experience. The actuation force for the Splash Brothers is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Splash Brothers for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push may lean towards the Maple Leaf for a more solid typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, the Maple Leaf has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for quicker response times. However, the Splash Brothers does have a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more profound keypress experience compared to the Maple Leaf. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel. If you enjoy a slightly deeper keypress, the Splash Brothers may be the better option, but if you prefer a quicker, shallower keypress, the Maple Leaf would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10, whereas the Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49.
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 doesn't have a specific reputation, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is known for its creamy sound signature. The neutral sound profile of the Splash Brothers makes it a versatile option suitable for various environments and users. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch doesn't have a defined feel, while the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is described as providing a mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished typing experience. The combination of these qualities gives the Splash Brothers a responsive and lively feel while maintaining a gentle and smooth typing experience. This makes it appealing to a wide range of users who appreciate a switch that strikes a balance between different tactile sensations.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Maple Leaf and Jwick Splash Brothers switches may vary in their subjective qualities of sound and feel, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a neutral sound profile and a versatile typing experience, the Splash Brothers linear switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer standard actuation force and are open to exploring different sound profiles, the Maple Leaf tactile switch could be an option to consider. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboards and configurations will provide you with the best insight into which one suits your preferences and typing style the most.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a versatile switch, the Maple Leaf may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a snappy, bouncy typing experience with a creamy sound signature, the Splash Brothers linear switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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