Kailh Box Jade vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Blue. The Box Jade is ideal for those who enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. Known for its crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, the Box Jade switch offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch is also a clicky switch but doesn't have distinct characteristics or a specific reputation. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Blue switches both feature polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in these housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches intended for RGB lighting. While both switches share this housing material, the differences in other components may still lead to variations in typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing, the Box Jade features a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Outemu Blue also incorporates a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience. While the use of the same material in the bottom housing may lead to comparable sound profiles, other factors such as spring weight and stem design can still impact the overall feel of each switch.
When different housing materials are used in the top and bottom of a switch, the qualities of each material will be felt accordingly. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both the Kailh Box Jade and the Outemu Blue switches may share similarities in housing materials, the overall typing experience may still vary based on the specific combination of materials and design elements in each switch.
Weight
Comparing the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, the actuation force is the same at 50 grams for both switches. However, the bottom out force differs between the two. The Box Jade has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience than the Outemu Blue, which has an unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Box Jade would be considered the heavier option, which may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue, with its lighter bottom out force, could be preferred by those who want to type for longer periods without experiencing as much fatigue. Ultimately, when using either of these switches, users can expect a similar actuation force but may notice a difference in the bottom out force depending on their preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Blue has a longer travel distance compared to the Kailh Box Jade. Typically, a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for some users who prefer a deeper feel when typing. On the other hand, a shorter travel distance, like that of the Kailh Box Jade, may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences in terms of typing experience and desired key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50, whereas the Outemu Blue 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, offering sharp and crisp clicks with a satisfying tactile bump. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound profile is not provided, but it can be assumed to offer a similar clicky sound experience. Both switches will deliver a satisfying auditory feedback when typing, with the Box Jade potentially offering a slightly higher-pitched sound compared to the Blue switch.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is described as having an accented and invigorating tactile feel, providing a medium-heavy typing experience with a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. This offers a snappy and reactive typing sensation that can be quite immersive. Unfortunately, information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is not available. However, it can be assumed that it will provide a similar level of tactility and typing experience to the Box Jade switch.
Overall, both the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch offer a clicky sound profile and a tactile typing experience. While the specific details of the Outemu Blue switch's sound and feel are unknown, based on the information provided about the Box Jade switch, it can be assumed that both switches will deliver a similar level of satisfaction in terms of auditory feedback and typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound pitch and feel intensity.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, choosing between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a crisp clicky sound profile and crunchy tactile bumps, the Box Jade would be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more affordable option with a clicky switch but are not concerned about bottom out force, the Outemu Blue could be a suitable alternative. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired level of tactility when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best fits your needs.
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