Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch to the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there are some notable differences to consider. The Maple Leaf is best known for its unique characteristics, while the WS Brown is praised for its balance of familiarity and innovation. The Maple Leaf switch falls under the category of tactile switches, whereas the WS Brown switch is categorized as a light tactile switch. The WS Brown switches offer a medium-light actuation force, providing a responsive yet comfortable typing experience that is ideal for longer typing sessions. In contrast, the Maple Leaf switch offers a different typing experience that enthusiasts appreciate for reasons that are not explicitly mentioned. Each switch has its own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences and typing styles. However, let’s dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is best for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Wuque Studio WS Brown are both made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using this material. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality, with the nylon top and bottom housings contributing to the overall sound profile of the switches.
However, despite both switches having nylon top and bottom housings that offer a similar sound profile, the way these materials impact the typing experience may differ slightly. The bottom housing of a switch tends to have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. This means that although both the Maple Leaf and WS Brown switches use nylon for their housing materials, there may be subtle differences in the typing experience based on how these materials interact with each other during use.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Maple Leaf and Wuque Studio WS Brown switches share the same nylon housing materials, the way these materials interact with each other may contribute to a slightly different typing experience for each switch. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the nylon material's sound-absorbing properties, but the specific impact of the top and bottom housings on the typing feel and sound may vary between the two switches. Overall, users can expect a similar level of sound quality and typing experience from both switches due to their shared use of nylon housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Maple Leaf has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the WS Brown, which has an unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Maple Leaf requires 65 grams to fully press down, while the WS Brown only needs 55 grams. This makes the Maple Leaf a heavier option overall, providing a more substantial typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the WS Brown would be the better choice as it requires less force to bottom out. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals who have varying preferences for the weight of their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Maple Leaf switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the WS Brown switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Maple Leaf switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial and deliberate feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the WS Brown switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to users with varying preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50.
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, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switches offer a unique auditory experience. The Maple Leaf switch may have a quieter sound profile due to its nylon housing and POM stem combination, providing a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch's sound signature is not specified, but it is likely to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing sound based on its design and materials used.
Moving on to feel, the Maple Leaf switch's tactile feel is not specified, but it is likely to offer a tactile bump that provides the user with feedback while typing. The WS Brown switch, with its medium-light actuation force, strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, ensuring a pleasant typing experience even during long typing sessions. This tactile feedback can enhance typing speed and accuracy for those who prefer a tactile switch.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Maple Leaf switch may provide a quieter typing experience with a tactile bump for feedback, while the WS Brown switch offers a harmonious blend of responsiveness and comfort with a satisfying typing sound. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either of these switches can be a great choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, consider the bottom out force and your personal preference for typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force at 65 grams and do not have a specific preference for sound or feel, the Maple Leaf may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter actuation force at 55 grams and value a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation in your typing experience, the WS Brown switches may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style, preferences, and priorities when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches.
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