Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there are some fundamental differences to consider. The Maple Leaf switch is best known for its tactile feel, while the Sunset Yellow switch is renowned for its creamsicle-colored design and captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding. The Sunset Yellow switch offers a rich, bassy, and decadent sound that turns typing into an indulgent experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch remains a tactile option for users looking for a different typing feel. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique characteristics, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is best for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
51g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches both offer unique sound profiles but differ in their material composition. The Maple Leaf features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow boasts a POM top housing that produces a pleasing and unique sound on the deeper side, with a relatively more muted tone. While both materials contribute to a rich sound experience, the nylon of the Maple Leaf emphasizes a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM of the Sunset Yellow.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, the nylon bottom housing of the Maple Leaf shares similar sound characteristics with its top housing, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Sunset Yellow offers a unique sound experience that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted, complementing the overall sound profile of the switch. Despite their differences in material composition, both bottom housings play a crucial role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, adding to the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches differ in their composition, both offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Maple Leaf's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder tone, while the Sunset Yellow's POM housing offers a pleasing and unique sound on the deeper side with a more muted tone. Regardless of the material used, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience for users by providing a rich and satisfying sound profile that adds to the overall tactile feedback of the switch.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, we see that the Maple Leaf has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Sunset Yellow. The Maple Leaf requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow only needs 43 grams to actuate and 51 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Sunset Yellow, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Maple Leaf would be the better choice. Both switches provide different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking quick response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Maple Leaf offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Sunset Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of keypress depth desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10, whereas the Everglide Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09.
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 and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch have distinct differences in both sound and feel qualities. In terms of sound, the Sunset Yellow switches are known for their bassy and thocky characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Maple Leaf switches is not specified. When it comes to feel, the Sunset Yellow switches are described as creamy, frictionless, and polished, offering a smooth, buttery typing experience with minimal resistance and friction. Again, the feel of the Maple Leaf switches is not detailed. Taking all available information into consideration, it is clear that the Sunset Yellow switches prioritize a rich and indulgent sound experience coupled with a smooth and effortless typing feel. In contrast, the qualities of the Maple Leaf switches remain unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in terms of sound and feel. However, based on the descriptions provided, users can expect a satisfying auditory and tactile experience with the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy tactile switch with a sharp and responsive typing experience, the Outemu Maple Leaf might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a rich and decadent sound profile, the Everglide Sunset Yellow could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Whether you prioritize a distinct gliding feel or a creamy and frictionless typing experience, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Everglide Sunset Yellow will depend on your specific typing style and preferences for sound and feel.