Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer distinct experiences suited to different preferences. The Outemu Maple Leaf, known for its tactile feedback, provides a pronounced bump that enhances the typing experience, making it an appealing choice for typists seeking a clear tactile response. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and a neutral sound signature that provides a satisfying "thock" sound without the noise of clicky switches. While both switches aim to enhance typing comfort, the Maple Leaf excels in providing tactile feedback ideal for those who value clear actuation points, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) is perfect for users who appreciate a seamless and refined keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$3.10 per 10

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), it is evident that the two switches utilize different materials for their top housings. The Maple Leaf features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. This material effectively absorbs sound waves, resulting in a more muted auditory experience that is characterized by a rounder tone. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and clarity. This choice of material provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound, ideal for those who prefer a crisper auditory feedback. Therefore, the fundamental difference in sound profiles can largely be attributed to the contrasting properties of nylon and polycarbonate in their respective top housings.

On the other hand, the bottom housings of both the Maple Leaf and Sticky Rice (V2) are made from nylon. This similarity in material means that both switches will exhibit a deeper and fuller sound profile when pressed, lending them a consistency in their bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the switches' overall auditory feedback, as it absorbs sound and creates a more subdued response when the key is fully depressed. As a result, despite the differences in the top housing materials, users can expect a similar auditory experience regarding the bottom sound, where both switches yield a soft and rounded tone due to the nylon construction.

While the contrasting materials in the top housings establish distinct auditory profiles for the Outemu Maple Leaf and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a degree of consistency in the overall sound experience. This divergence in top housing materials creates a layered soundscape: the Maple Leaf's more muted auditory feedback juxtaposed with the Sticky Rice’s crisp resonance. However, when it comes to the typing experience itself, users will encounter the richness and depth provided by the nylon bottom in both switches. Consequently, while the two switches can deliver varied auditory experiences based on their top housings, the intertwined nature of their respective bottom housings allows users to experience similar core characteristics, especially during key presses.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom-out force of 65 grams to the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, noticeable differences emerge in both weight and feel. The Maple Leaf, with its medium-heavy forces, offers a more substantial typing experience that may appeal to users who prefer a stronger push, making it ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) presents a lighter feel with its lower actuation and bottom-out forces, making it a better option for individuals seeking comfort over extended periods, such as in professional or gaming scenarios. Thus, while the Maple Leaf is the heavier of the two and provides a firmer typing experience, the Sticky Rice is lighter and may allow for quicker keystrokes with less finger fatigue. In summary, those favoring a more robust typing experience might gravitate towards the Maple Leaf, while the Sticky Rice caters to users looking for a softer touch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, notable differences emerge. The Maple Leaf features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Maple Leaf offers a more responsive experience for gamers and those seeking quicker actuation, making it suitable for fast-paced tasks. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced tactile feel, appealing to users who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, those who favor a swift response should opt for the shorter Maple Leaf, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may find the longer travel of the Sticky Rice (V2) to be more satisfying.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is not extensively known for any specific auditory quality. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has garnered acclaim for its neutral sound signature that leans into the satisfying "thock" sound profile favored by keyboard enthusiasts. This nuanced auditory experience is attributed to a well-balanced construction that allows for a pleasant acoustic feedback during typing. It’s important to note that the sound produced by any switch can also be influenced by the keyboard’s construction and the keycaps used.

Regarding the feel of the switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf remains somewhat undefined in this area, leaving its tactile experience largely open to interpretation. However, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is recognized for its super smooth keystroke, which is enhanced by a dustproof stem designed to minimize wobble and optimize performance. This combination of qualities results in a refined tactile sensation that many typists appreciate, making the Sticky Rice (V2) an excellent choice for those who seek both tactile feedback and smoothness in their typing experience.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Maple Leaf lacks detailed characterization in both sound and feel, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) stands out with its satisfying auditory profile and remarkably smooth and refined tactile feedback. If you're seeking a reliable typing experience, the Sticky Rice (V2) presents a compelling option. If you are drawn to the idea of the Maple Leaf switch, keep in mind that individual experiences may vary, and outcomes can differ depending on the overall keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your decision between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch will largely depend on your personal preferences regarding key feel, sound, and typing experience. If you prefer a more medium-heavy switch that provides a firmer tactile feedback and complements a robust typing style, the Maple Leaf is a solid option. It might be particularly suitable for users who enjoy a certain amount of resistance and tactile response that can enhance typing accuracy. Conversely, if you favor a lighter keystroke that offers a smooth and refined experience, along with the satisfying "thock" sound that many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts cherish, the Sticky Rice (V2) is likely the better choice for you. Its super smooth operation and reduced wobble contribute to a consistently enjoyable typing experience, especially ideal for prolonged use. Ultimately, consider your typing habits—whether you lean more towards a heavier, tactile punch or a light, fluid motion—to select the switch that will best enhance your keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn more