Outemu Maple Leaf vs. HMX Vintage Citrus

Overview

When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a pivotal role, especially when comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf and the HMX Vintage Citrus. The Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, delivers a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which provides satisfying feedback for typists who appreciate a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus stands out as a linear switch, specifically designed for gamers seeking rapid inputs. Its impressively low actuation force of just 1mm allows for swift and effortless key presses, complemented by a bright, clacky sound profile that enhances the gaming atmosphere. While both switches cater to different needs—tactile feedback versus ultra-responsive action—each offers distinct advantages depending on your typing style or gaming preferences. 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

HMX Vintage Citrus Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the HMX Vintage Citrus, it's evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is significant as it results in a similar acoustic profile for both switches. The use of nylon, a classic in switch construction, allows for a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon leads to better sound absorption compared to harder plastics, which is why users can expect a duller and rounder sound from both switches. This similarity in material directly contributes to a shared acoustic character, enhancing the overall typing experience, whether utilizing the Maple Leaf or Vintage Citrus switches.

In examining the impact of the nylon housing on the performance of each switch, we can observe that the bottom housing plays a crucial role when the key is pressed down. Both the Maple Leaf and Vintage Citrus switches will exhibit a coalescence of tactile and auditory feedback thanks to the qualities imparted by their nylon bottom housings. Given that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the feeling when bottoming out will be consistently softer and more muted, contributing to a satisfying typing experience across both models. This shared material choice ensures that the user will notice similarities in how the switches perform under pressure.

However, while the top and bottom housings of both switches are identical in material, the overall typing experience may still vary slightly based on individual design nuances and switch mechanisms. Each switch could have unique stem designs or spring characteristics that differentiate their feel and response beyond the material alone. Nonetheless, for users who prioritize sound profile and feel, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and the HMX Vintage Citrus provide a commendable and consistent experience rooted in their nylon housings, leading to similarly appealing outcomes in sound and tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, notable differences emerge that cater to distinct typing preferences. The Maple Leaf features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus boasts a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that users who favor a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons may find the Vintage Citrus more suitable, while those desiring a heftier feel and more resistance in their keystrokes might gravitate towards the Maple Leaf. As a result, the Outemu Maple Leaf is perceived as the heavier option, whereas the HMX Vintage Citrus is the lighter choice between the two.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, it becomes clear that the Maple Leaf offers a longer travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Vintage Citrus has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm highlights a notable distinction between the two switches, with the Maple Leaf providing a more pronounced feedback that many users might prefer for a richer typing experience. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus, with its shorter travel distance, may cater more towards gamers or users who prioritize quick response times and a more immediate actuation feel. Consequently, those who favor a deeper press are likely to gravitate toward the Maple Leaf, while those who enjoy a snappier input might choose the Vintage Citrus.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch presents an undefined quality, leaving a gap in understanding what it might contribute to an auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch offers a bright and clacky sound profile. This distinct auditory output is particularly appealing to gamers and typists who appreciate feedback in their keystrokes. However, it's important to keep in mind that the sound of each switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard construction and the type of keycaps used.

Regarding the feel, the Maple Leaf switch does not have a specific description to evaluate, making it challenging to gauge its tactile experience. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus switch stands out due to its exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm. This feature enhances the overall smoothness of the push feel, making it very suitable for rapid-fire inputs, very appealing for gamers seeking efficiency during gameplay.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Maple Leaf switch leaves aspects unexplored, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch shines in both sound and feel with its clacky auditory profile and smooth actuation. For individuals seeking an engaging typing experience, especially in gaming, the Vintage Citrus might be the preferred choice due to its specific design for quick inputs. If tactile feedback is essential, more exploration may be necessary to determine how the Maple Leaf compares, as its characteristics remain undefined.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing needs and preferences. If you find satisfaction in a firmer key feel and appreciate a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, then the Maple Leaf switch might be your ideal match, especially if tactile feedback is something you value for both typing and casual gaming. On the other hand, if you're a gamer who thrives on speed and rapid inputs, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch, with its light 53-gram actuation force and incredibly quick 1mm actuation distance, would serve you far better. You can't go wrong with its clacky sound profile and smooth push feel, elevating your gaming performance to new heights. Therefore, consider where your priorities lie: choose the Maple Leaf for a tactile typing experience or opt for the Vintage Citrus if responsiveness and speed are what you seek. Both switches have their unique strengths, so reflect on what you value most in your mechanical keyboard experience as you make your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Vintage Citrus Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn more