Cherry MX Brown vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Maple Leaf mechanical keyboard switches, one notable difference is the level of tactility they offer. The Cherry MX Brown switch is renowned for its subtle tactile feedback, providing a light typing experience with minimal noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch lacks a specific descriptor but still provides a tactile typing experience. While the Cherry MX Brown switch is praised for its textured and low-pitched sound profile, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch's characteristics remain undefined. Each switch has its own unique features and benefits, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and typing habits. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Both the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. This softer plastic material helps to dampen noise and produce a rounder sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
While both switches share the same nylon material for their housing, the Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Maple Leaf switches may differ in their overall feel and sound due to variations in the design of their housings. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction may result in subtle differences in typing feedback and sound profile between the two switches, despite their shared housing material.
Overall, the similarities in housing material between the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches contribute to a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The nylon material in both switches allows for a quieter and deeper sound profile, making them suitable for users looking for a switch with a more muted typing noise. While variations in housing design may lead to slight differences in feedback, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience for those who appreciate the benefits of nylon housing.
Weight
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Similarly, the MX Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Maple Leaf has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the MX Brown is more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Cherry MX Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf switch. The difference of 0.7 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Cherry MX Brown, while those who prefer a quicker, more responsive feel may opt for the Outemu Maple Leaf. Ultimately, both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the Cherry MX Brown provides a slightly longer distance for those who enjoy a deeper keystroke feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00, whereas the Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10.
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 Cherry MX Brown switches are praised for their bassy and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf switches is not available. It's worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their textured feel, which can provide a noticeable friction when pressed. This texture may appeal to some users while others prefer a smoother typing experience. Unfortunately, details on the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switches are not provided.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their subtle tactility, gentle typing experience, bassy sound, and textured feel, the information available for the Outemu Maple Leaf switches is limited. It is important to consider personal preferences, typing style, and the overall keyboard setup when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches may be the best way to determine which one suits your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose Cherry MX Brown tactile switches or Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with subtle tactility and a softer sound profile, the Cherry MX Browns may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier keystroke with a more pronounced tactile bump, the Outemu Maple Leaf switches may be more suitable. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel to determine which switch best aligns with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you when typing on a mechanical keyboard.
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