Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, and the Jerrzi Violet, also a tactile switch. The Maple Leaf is known for None, while the Violet switches are praised for their smooth actuation and poppy tactility, offering a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound signature. Both switches provide a tactile feedback, but the Maple Leaf falls short in terms of distinct features compared to the Violet's stepped design. If you're looking for a straightforward tactile switch, the Maple Leaf may be the way to go. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Jerrzi Violet, it is clear that there are differences in their construction. The Maple Leaf utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Violet features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials have their distinct sound characteristics, they offer different auditory experiences to the user.
Despite the differences in their top housings, the bottom housings of both the Maple Leaf and the Violet feature nylon material. This consistency in material choice means that both switches will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, regardless of the differences in the top housings of the switches. It also highlights the importance of bottom housing material in influencing the overall sound profile of a mechanical switch.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Jerrzi Violet ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Maple Leaf offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon top and bottom housings, while the Violet provides a sharper and crisper sound thanks to its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, whether one prefers a rounder sound profile from the Maple Leaf or a clearer sound profile from the Violet. Ultimately, the different housing materials of these switches showcase how material choice can significantly impact the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is evident that the Maple Leaf is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Violet is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The Maple Leaf provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Violet offers a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Both switches have their own advantages depending on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Maple Leaf's 3.3 mm travel distance may provide a slightly quicker actuation compared to the 3.7 mm travel distance of the Violet. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press and greater depth, the Jerrzi Violet may offer a more satisfying experience. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, but the Jerrzi Violet stands out as the slightly longer option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 does not have a specific reputation or characteristic to go by. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature. This means that the Violet switch produces a moderate sound profile that is suitable for a variety of environments and users. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors including the keyboard case and keycaps used.
As for the feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have a defined feel profile provided. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch is recognized for its stepped feel. Stepped switches offer a two-stage tactile feedback experience, providing a more subtle tactile bump compared to more pronounced or "hyper tactile" switches. This means users can feel a slight pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation when typing with the Violet switches.
In conclusion, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Maple Leaf lacks specific information in these areas, the Violet switch is known for its neutral sound profile and stepped tactile feel. It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these two switches, as the sound and feel of a switch can greatly impact the typing experience. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience but will cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is important to consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch that excels in None, then the Outemu Maple Leaf switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a smooth actuation, pleasing tactility, and a neutral sound profile, then the Jerrzi Violet switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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