Outemu Maple Leaf vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and the PH Studio Yoel offer unique experiences for users. The Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying feedback and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Yoel is a linear switch that delivers a smooth typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile. While the Maple Leaf is known for its tactile response, the Yoel excels in providing a creamy and resonant typing experience. When choosing between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Maple Leaf and the PH Studio Yoel both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, which significantly affect the sound profiles of the switches. The Maple Leaf features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Yoel is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic material. While the Maple Leaf offers a duller and rounder sound, the Yoel possesses a more clear and resonant sound, perfect for those looking for a distinct auditory experience while typing.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Maple Leaf and Yoel further differentiate themselves. The Maple Leaf's nylon bottom housing maintains the deep and fuller sound profile associated with nylon, providing a consistent typing experience with a rounder sound. On the other hand, the Yoel's POM bottom housing offers a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. This contrast in bottom housings showcases how different materials can impact the overall sound profile of a switch, catering to various preferences in sound and typing feel.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Maple Leaf and Yoel, both switches demonstrate the importance of top and bottom housings in shaping the overall typing experience. The split between the qualities brought by each housing material allows for a balanced sound profile when pressing down on the switch and when letting go of a key. Whether it be the softer nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf or the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Yoel, these housing materials play a crucial role in creating a unique and personalized typing sound that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is clear that the Maple Leaf has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Maple Leaf requires 65 grams compared to the Yoel's 60 grams. This makes the Maple Leaf switch slightly heavier in both aspects. The actuation force of both switches falls within the medium range, providing a balance between responsiveness and tactile feedback. When it comes to typing preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Yoel switch due to its slightly lower actuation and bottom out forces. Conversely, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Maple Leaf switch for its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we find that the Maple Leaf has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Yoel's 3.2 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can have a noticeable impact on the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Yoel, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Maple Leaf. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar travel distance that falls within the range commonly sought after by keyboard enthusiasts, providing a satisfying typing experience regardless of the specific choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 PH Studio Yoel linear switch is well-known for its bright and clacky profile, providing a satisfying and pronounced resonance when keys reach the bottom-out point. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch are not explicitly outlined, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. It is important to note that sound perception can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is described as delivering a delectably chewy typing experience, enveloping fingertips with every press. The switch is likened to a creamy, polished, and silky sensation, providing smooth and buttery key presses, reduced friction, and a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is not specified, making it challenging to contrast the two switches based on this subjective quality.
Overall, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch stands out for its bright and clacky sound profile, alongside a creamy, polished, and silky typing sensation. In comparison, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch lacks detailed descriptions of its sound and feel characteristics, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches. However, if one enjoys a tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Maple Leaf may also provide satisfying results. Ultimately, individual preferences and typing habits will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for a newcomer to the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when making a decision between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are less concerned about sound and feel, the Maple Leaf may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, the Yoel switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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