Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Bsun Taichi

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence your typing experience, and two notable options in this realm are the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, and the Bsun Taichi, a linear switch. The Maple Leaf is designed to provide a tactile bump that enhances feedback when a key is pressed, making it a great option for typists who enjoy the sensation of a clear response with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi delivers a seamless and quiet typing experience, characterized by its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, crafted through a long-pole stem and extended springs that ensure smoothness and stability. While the Maple Leaf is ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback in their typing, the Taichi might appeal more to gamers and writers seeking a fluid keypress without interruption. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on the user's preference; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

Bsun Taichi Linear

$3.10 per 10

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Maple Leaf and the Bsun Taichi display notable contrasts in their choice of materials for the top housing, which significantly affects the auditory profile produced during use. The Maple Leaf features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition. This results in a sound signature that is more muted and rounded, as nylon is adept at absorbing sound. In contrast, the Taichi employs a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clearer and more resonant auditory experience, making it ideal for enthusiasts who favor a bright acoustic feedback, particularly when utilizing RGB lighting that accentuates the clear aesthetic properties of the material.

Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, fostering a sense of similarity in this regard. The nylon bottom housing in both the Maple Leaf and Taichi produces a uniform sound profile that is deeper and fuller, as nylon is recognized for its sound-absorbing capabilities. Regardless of the differing top materials, the bottom housing's soft nature ensures that the bottom-out sound feels consistent across both switches, affording users a solid typing experience. This shared aspect of nylon between the two models creates a form of acoustic continuity, allowing for a satisfying tactile response during use, even as the auditory characteristics diverge due to the variation in top housing materials.

Ultimately, the distinction between the Maple Leaf’s nylon top and the Taichi’s polycarbonate top results in a unique typing experience for each switch, underscoring how material choice influences sound. Users may find that each switch has its own signature, with the Maple Leaf presenting a more subdued profile suitable for quieter environments, while the Taichi caters to those who enjoy robust and vibrant acoustic feedback. However, the commonality in using nylon for the bottom housing integrates a similar foundational feel and response, ensuring that, despite the differences in upper housing materials, both switches can offer a well-rounded and enjoyable typing experience rooted in their shared characteristics.

Weight

The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch present different characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option that provides a more substantial typing experience favored by those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Taichi switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, appealing to users who favor longer typing sessions without as much resistance. However, the Taichi's bottom out force remains unknown, which leaves an incomplete comparison in that aspect. Overall, the Maple Leaf is the heavier option, while the Taichi is lighter, making them suitable for different typing preferences. Users seeking a balanced typing experience may appreciate the Maple Leaf's tactile feedback and weight, whereas those who prioritize ease and speed in their keystrokes might lean towards the lighter Taichi.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Maple Leaf has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Taichi features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you favor quicker response times and a more immediate key press, the shorter travel distance of the Maple Leaf could be the better choice. Conversely, if you prefer a more pronounced feel and deeper engagement while typing or gaming, the Taichi with its longer 3.6 mm travel distance may be more appealing. Therefore, those looking for a more responsive experience should consider the Outemu Maple Leaf, whereas users who appreciate a more substantial key press might lean towards the Bsun Taichi switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch remains unspecified, leaving its acoustic characteristics a bit of a mystery. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is known for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, which is the result of a thoughtfully designed long-pole stem, extended springs, and walled stems. This combines to create a distinct auditory experience that can be engaging for users who enjoy a more pronounced sound when typing or gaming. However, it’s essential to remember that the overall sound experience can be influenced by the specific keyboard build and keycap choice, so various configurations can lead to different acoustic outcomes.

When considering feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch lacks a definitive description of its tactile characteristics, making it challenging to evaluate its performance in this regard. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi switch is noted for its smoothness and stability, thanks to its design features that enhance the linear action. Users looking for a fluid typing experience might lean toward the Taichi switch since its construction supports a seamless keystroke action that is favored in linear switches. The lack of information on the Maple Leaf makes it difficult to ascertain how its feel might compare directly to the Taichi's well-regarded attributes.

In conclusion, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch stands out with its distinctive sound and smooth feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch offers less clarity in its qualities. Users who value a satisfying auditory experience may find the Taichi preferable, but the tactile qualities of the Maple Leaf remain unknown. Without a comparative feel feature, potential users will need to consider personal preferences and perhaps test both options themselves, as the choice of board and keycaps could further influence their final decision.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch will largely depend on your typing style and personal preference. If you enjoy a more tactile feedback and prefer a medium-heavy feel when you bottom out, the Maple Leaf is likely the better option for you. This switch will provide a satisfying resistance that can enhance your typing experience, making it suitable for both typists and gamers who want clear actuation points. On the other hand, if you value smoothness and a quieter keystroke experience, the Bsun Taichi linear switch may be more aligned with your needs. The enchanting high-pitched sound and the unique design of the Taichi switch offer a distinct feel that many users find pleasurable, especially for gaming where rapid key presses are essential. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you — tactile feedback versus smoothness — as you make your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Taichi Linear

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

Learn more