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Outemu Maple Leaf vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°

An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer unique features for different preferences. The Maple Leaf is a tactile switch, providing a satisfying bump feedback during typing, while the Zero Degree 0° stands out as a linear switch that offers a smooth, quiet typing experience. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile response, the Maple Leaf may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a noise-reducing and ultra-smooth typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° could be the perfect fit. 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

1.80 mm

Total travel

3.30 mm

Total travel

3.60 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

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

20mm extended spring

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This means that when typing on either switch, users can expect to experience a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the nylon plastic. However, the slight difference in sound may come from the top housing material used in each switch. The Maple Leaf features a nylon top housing, while the Zero Degree 0° uses a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf.

One key distinction between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. The Nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a more subdued sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° is stiffer and more resonant, creating a crisper and clearer sound when typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetics of the switch. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings, the impact of the top housing material on sound production cannot be overlooked.

Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Maple Leaf and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Maple Leaf's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound. Both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile. However, the top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, so users should consider their preferences when selecting between these two options.

Weight

In comparing the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is clear that the Maple Leaf requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Zero Degree 0° which requires 45 grams. This means that the Maple Leaf switch will provide a slightly heavier typing experience when initially pressing the keys. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Maple Leaf requires 65 grams of force while the force required for the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. This indicates that the Maple Leaf switch will also provide a heavier feel when fully pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the Maple Leaf switch is heavier in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Zero Degree 0°. The choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may impact the feel of the keypress for some users. Those who prefer a slightly deeper keypress may lean towards the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, while users looking for a slightly quicker response may prefer the Outemu Maple Leaf. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, providing similar results in terms of responsiveness.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.

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

The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer distinct experiences in sound and feel. The Maple Leaf's sound profile is not specified, while the Zero Degree 0° is specially designed for silent typing, offering a quiet typing experience with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure. This makes it ideal for those looking for a quieter keyboard option. When it comes to feel, the Maple Leaf's tactile feedback is not detailed, while the Zero Degree 0° boasts unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. This smooth linear switch provides a consistent typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a linear switch for fast and smooth keystrokes. Overall, while the Maple Leaf's qualities are unknown, the Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovation in silent typing technology, making it a top choice for users seeking a quiet and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, but both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are focused on a specific feature or characteristic that the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch offers, then the Maple Leaf would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a keyboard switch with a unique design that prioritizes silent typing with a smooth and stable feel, then the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch would be the better option for you. Consider your preferences and specific needs when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best typing experience for yourself.

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