Outemu Maple Leaf vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star Yanyu, a linear switch. The Maple Leaf switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is favored for its smooth linear action, making it ideal for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or those typing for extended periods. Additionally, the Yanyu switch offers a crisp sound profile thanks to its unique material blend. While the Maple Leaf switch provides tactile feedback, the Yanyu switch offers a smooth typing experience. 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
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Maple Leaf and the SP-Star Yanyu both utilize nylon as the material for their top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. However, the Yanyu's top housing stands out due to its unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE, resulting in a slightly brighter sound compared to the Maple Leaf. This difference in sound profile can offer users a variety of options based on their personal preference, with the Maple Leaf providing a rounder and duller sound while the Yanyu offers a more pleasant and brighter tone.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches feature nylon as the material. This allows them to provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder tone. However, the Yanyu's bottom housing also includes UHMWPE, which could potentially impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This blend of materials in the Yanyu's bottom housing might offer a slightly different tactile experience compared to the Maple Leaf, giving users more options to choose from based on their preferences.
Overall, while both switches share similarities in their use of nylon for housing materials, the unique blends utilized in the SP-Star Yanyu set it apart from the Outemu Maple Leaf. The Yanyu's combination of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in both the top and bottom housing provide a distinct sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a slightly brighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's classic nylon top and bottom housing offer a deeper and fuller sound, catering to those who prefer a rounder and duller tone. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that the Maple Leaf is the heavier option. With an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Maple Leaf switch provides a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is lighter, with an actuation force that is unknown and a bottom out force of 43 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches is significant, with the Maple Leaf being more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Yanyu is better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Maple Leaf offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it preferred by gamers looking for faster input feedback. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches offer unique benefits in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences for keyboard switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for either a shorter and more responsive feel or a longer and more tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is best known for its neutral sound profile, which makes it suitable for a variety of uses. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. When comparing the two switches, the Maple Leaf provides a more versatile sound experience, while the Yanyu offers a more specific, satisfying thocky sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Maple Leaf's tactile characteristics are unknown, while the Yanyu linear switch is described as providing a gentle and light typing experience. The Yanyu offers a feathery feel with a subtle resistance, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Yanyu switch's polished finish results in smooth key travel, further enhancing the typing feel. While the feel of the Maple Leaf switch is unspecified, the Yanyu linear switch stands out for its comfortable and smooth typing experience.
Overall, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Maple Leaf provides a neutral sound profile, while the Yanyu switch offers a thocky sound that is deep and satisfying. When it comes to feel, the Yanyu switch stands out for its gentle and comfortable typing experience, with a polished finish for smooth key travel. Whether you choose the Maple Leaf or the Yanyu switch, both options offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a versatile switch with no specific standout feature, the Maple Leaf may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a light bottom out force and are looking for a delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switch would be more suitable, especially for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing style and needs.
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