Outemu Maple Leaf vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves debating between tactile and linear switches when it comes to Outemu's Maple Leaf and HMX's Swift. The Maple Leaf is recognized for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump upon actuation. On the other hand, the Swift is known for its smooth linear action, with a deep sound profile and light actuation force. While the Maple Leaf offers a tactile typing experience, the Swift provides a quieter and smoother typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the HMX Swift, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of material allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The similarities in housing materials between the two switches suggest that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, while both the Maple Leaf and Swift utilize nylon for their housing materials, the specific design and construction of each switch may lead to subtle differences in sound and feel. The way in which the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacts the sound when letting go of a key, may vary slightly between the two switches. These differences in design could result in unique typing experiences for users of each switch, despite their shared use of nylon for housing materials.
Overall, the choice of nylon as the housing material for both the Outemu Maple Leaf and the HMX Swift contributes to a consistent typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. While there may be subtle differences in how the top and bottom housings impact the overall sound and feel of each switch, the shared use of nylon ensures that users can expect a similar level of typing satisfaction from both switches. Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Maple Leaf and the HMX Swift may come down to personal preferences for factors beyond just housing materials, such as key actuation force or switch actuation method.
Weight
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Maple Leaf has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams, making it heavier to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the Maple Leaf requires a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Swift only needs 50 grams to fully press down. This means that the Maple Leaf switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy touch, while the Swift switch provides a lighter and more effortless keystroke. Depending on personal preference, some may find the Maple Leaf to be better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Swift would be ideal for those who enjoy a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance compared to the Swift, making it more suitable for those who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Swift's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, but the slight difference in length may still influence the overall typing experience for users with specific preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is known for its quiet operation with a subtle tactile bump. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as having a clacky sound profile, producing a crisp and percussive sound when pressed. This difference in sound is due to the Swift's full nylon housings, which contribute to its deeper and more pronounced acoustics. However, it's important to note that individual preferences for sound can vary depending on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Maple Leaf switch is known for its smooth keystrokes with a tactile bump for feedback. On the contrary, the HMX Swift switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force, combined with its feathery and bouncy qualities, offers a comfortable and responsive typing experience that can reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Swift switch is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery feel that enhances the overall typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Maple Leaf switch provides a quiet and tactile typing experience, the Swift switch stands out with its clacky sound and easy-to-press nature. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a quieter and more tactile typing experience, the Maple Leaf switch may be the better option, while those looking for a more responsive and effortless typing feel may prefer the HMX Swift switch. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person is the best way to determine which one suits your needs and preferences best.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a smoother and slightly heavier key press with a standard bottom out force, the Maple Leaf may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch with a unique sound profile and a silky smooth actuation, the HMX Swift could be your ideal match. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal comfort and typing style for an enhanced keyboard experience.
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