Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and Durock T1 offer distinct tactile experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Maple Leaf switch, although less prominent in the community, is appreciated for its unique characteristics, catering to users looking for a specific feel in their typing experience. In contrast, the Durock T1 has garnered a reputation for its exceptional comfort, featuring a medium tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke, reminiscent of soothing rain against a window. The T1's sound profile is low-pitched and polished, contributing to an overall pleasant auditory experience. While the Maple Leaf may entice those seeking a more niche option, the Durock T1 is ideal for typists who prioritize comfort and auditory satisfaction. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and Durock T1 switches, it is essential to focus on the distinct characteristics that their top housings bring to the overall typing experience. The Maple Leaf features a nylon top housing, known for its softer material qualities which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon’s inherent ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, which results in a more subdued and rounded auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Durock T1 incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its stiffer nature. This material produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, offering a clearer resonance during keystrokes. The translucent quality of polycarbonate also serves an aesthetic purpose, enhancing RGB lighting effects, which isn't a feature shared by nylon.
When examining the bottom housings of these two switches, we find a marked difference in characteristics. Both the Maple Leaf and T1 employ nylon for their bottom housings, a material celebrated for its ability to contribute to a fuller sound profile due to its sound-absorbing properties. Since both switches share the same bottom housing material, it allows them to have similar acoustic qualities when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. This uniformity in the bottom housing helps ensure that, irrespective of the differences in their top materials, both switches can provide a substantially similar tactile experience in terms of how they sound and feel when bottomed out.
The combined effects of the differing top housings mean that while both the Outemu Maple Leaf and Durock T1 share the same nylon bottom housing, they offer contrasting auditory experiences. The Maple Leaf produces a deeper, more resonant sound when a key is released due to its nylon top, while the Durock T1’s polycarbonate top creates a clearer, crisper sound during the same action. However, as noted, both switches will sound similar when pressed down because their bottom housings are identical. This mix of distinct top materials impacting the sound profile upon releasing a key and shared bottom materials ensuring a consistent bottom-out experience mirrors the complexity and variety a keyboard user might seek when choosing between different switch types.
Weight
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch present a comparison of actuation and bottom out forces that caters to different preferences in typing feel. The Maple Leaf has a defined actuation force of 55 grams, allowing users to trigger keystrokes with a moderate amount of pressure, while its bottom out force is 65 grams, indicating the resistance felt when pressing the switch all the way down. In contrast, the Durock T1 does not have a specified actuation force, but its bottom out force is slightly higher at 67 grams. This means that while the Maple Leaf switch offers a lighter typing experience with its actuation force, the T1 is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out pressure, contributing to a more substantial feel when fully pressed. Consequently, typists who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions might gravitate towards the Maple Leaf, while those who enjoy a firmer and more pronounced feedback may favor the T1. Overall, users can expect a similar tactile response, although the Maple Leaf offers a more defined actuation force, potentially leading to a varied typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there is a clear distinction. The Maple Leaf has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the T1 measures 4 mm. This means that the T1 offers a fuller keystroke experience, catering to users who prefer a more substantial feel with a deeper actuation, which is typical in traditional switch designs. In contrast, the Maple Leaf's shorter travel distance is ideal for gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, if you favor a more responsive typing experience, the Maple Leaf is the better choice, while the T1 will appeal to those who appreciate a richer tactile feedback due to its longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Outemu Maple Leaf and Durock T1 tactile switches, the notable difference lies in the T1's specific descriptive qualities. The T1 is characterized by a low-pitched sound, resembling the gentle patter of rain against a window, which lends a calming, bass-heavy quality. This sound is complemented by its neutrality, making it a versatile choice suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. In contrast, the sound profile of the Maple Leaf remains unspecified, leaving a blank canvas in this aspect for those considering its auditory character.
In terms of feel, the Durock T1 stands out with its stepped tactile feedback, characterized by a medium bump that offers a clear distinction between stages in the keystroke. This design allows typists to experience both pre-travel and post-travel sensations, creating a comfortable and engaging typing experience. The accents in the T1 switch make it a balanced choice that provides noticeable tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the smooth and polished finish of the T1 ensures a refined feel, reducing friction while typing. The qualities of the Maple Leaf remain unknown in this category, leaving potential users curious about its tactile experience.
In summary, the Durock T1 tactile switch is well-regarded for its comfortable typing experience, accompanied by a low-pitched, neutral sound. It is thoughtfully designed with stepped and accented tactile feedback that enhances usability while remaining polished and smooth. Conversely, the Outemu Maple Leaf lacks defined characteristics in both sound and feel, leaving users to wonder about its performance. For those seeking a reliable option, the Durock T1 offers specific strengths, while the Maple Leaf may present an intriguing yet uncertain alternative for exploration.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the context in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value a well-rounded switch that offers a smooth and comfortable typing experience, the Durock T1 is the better option, thanks to its low-pitched sound that's reminiscent of rain and its stepped tactile feel, which strikes a balance between noticeable feedback and comfort—perfect for long hours of typing. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a more distinct type of switch that offers medium-heavy resistance and a neutral sound profile suitable for both work and leisure, then the Maple Leaf might be your best choice. In essence, if you prioritize a balanced tactile experience that remains accessible for both beginners and seasoned users alike, lean towards the T1; however, if you're looking for something more versatile with a slightly different actuation feel, the Maple Leaf could suit your needs just as well. Your ultimate choice will depend on what you find most satisfying in your daily typing experience.
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