Kailh Berry vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, there are distinct features that set them apart. The Berry switch offers a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture, producing a deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Blue Jade switch does not have any specific standout characteristics listed. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a unique texture and deep sound, the Berry switch may be the right choice for you. In contrast, the Blue Jade switch might be more suited for those who enjoy a clicky feel without any standout features. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make a well-informed decision on the best switch for your mechanical keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and Outemu Blue Jade switches have their own unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. In terms of the top housing, the Berry uses polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Blue Jade utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound for a duller tone. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference for typing sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Berry and Blue Jade switches feature nylon for this component. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, impacting the overall typing experience. Despite the similar choice of material for the bottom housing, the specific design and construction of each switch may still result in subtle differences in typing feel and sound feedback.
When it comes to switches with different top and bottom housing materials, such as the Berry and Blue Jade, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with each component contributing its own unique characteristics to the overall typing sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon will depend on your personal preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, there are some notable differences. The Kailh Berry linear switch has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires no force to trigger a keystroke, while the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, giving it a slightly heavier feel. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kailh Berry linear switch requires 70 grams to press all the way down, making it the heavier option compared to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, which only requires 65 grams for bottoming out. Overall, the Kailh Berry switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch offers a slightly lighter actuation force for those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is clear that the Berry has a shorter travel distance at 3.6 mm compared to the Blue Jade's 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Berry may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Blue Jade may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on individual preference, with the Berry offering a more responsive feel and the Blue Jade providing a more pronounced keystroke sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Outemu Blue Jade 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 Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy tones, providing a deep and mellow typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have any specific descriptors for sound. Therefore, if sound is a crucial factor for you, the Berry switch may be the better choice as it offers a unique and satisfying auditory feedback during typing.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is described as having a textured or scratchy feel, which may provide a different tactile sensation compared to smoother switches. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available for the feel of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch. Despite this, if you prefer a switch with noticeable friction and texture while typing, the Berry switch may be more suitable for your preferences.
Taking into consideration the available information, if you are looking for a switch with a distinctive low-pitched and bassy sound profile along with a textured feel during typing, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice. However, if sound and feel are not particularly important factors for you, both switches may provide similar results in terms of performance and durability. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches should be based on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a springy feel with a chalk-like texture and a deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a clicky sound and lighter bottom out force, the Blue Jade switch could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in both feel and sound. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences for the best mechanical keyboard experience.
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