Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch. The Gateron Melodic stands out for its innovation in the clicky switch category, offering a smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems for a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback while maintaining smoothness. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf is known for its tactile feedback without any specific standout features. If you prefer a switch that is 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy', the Gateron Melodic 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Maple Leaf, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a rounder sound. The difference lies in the top housing material, with the Melodic using polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound profile. This makes the Melodic switch likely to produce a higher-pitched sound compared to the Maple Leaf switch with its nylon top housing.
However, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a similar sound experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The main distinction between the two switches lies in their top housing material - polycarbonate for the Melodic and nylon for the Maple Leaf. The polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic switch creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf creates a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profile showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience of a switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the Melodic switch's polycarbonate top housing offers translucency, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch with its nylon top housing does not provide the same visual appeal but focuses more on delivering a deeper sound profile. Both switches demonstrate the importance of housing materials in enhancing the sound and feel of mechanical keyboards, catering to different preferences in sound and aesthetics. Despite their differences, both switches ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Melodic switch has a non-specified actuation force and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. In comparison, the Maple Leaf switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Melodic switch, which allows for longer typing sessions without strain. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch offers a heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer it. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and preference of users.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Melodic has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Melodic offers a more traditional feel with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether you prioritize responsiveness or a more substantial key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, providing a higher-pitched sound profile with a clean and sharp clicky noise reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's sound profile is currently unavailable. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, users of the Gateron Melodic switch can expect a buttery and invigorating typing experience. This means that the switch will provide a smooth and fluid keystroke with a seamless and effortless typing sensation, as well as pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel for an immersive typing experience. Unfortunately, details on the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch are not provided.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy sound profile along with a buttery and invigorating tactile feel. While information on the Outemu Maple Leaf switch's sound and feel qualities is currently unavailable, if the two switches are similar in design and construction, users can expect to achieve comparable results in both sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Melodic if you prioritize a smooth and immersive typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile. The Melodic is a great choice for those who enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. On the other hand, opt for the Maple Leaf if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a tactile switch without a specific sound profile preference. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences for a truly satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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