TTC Brother vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Brother and Outemu Blue Jade are both clicky mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features catering to different preferences. The TTC Brother is praised for its light actuation force of 37g, providing a breezy and comfortable typing experience. Its satisfyingly crunchy sound signature and well-balanced tactile bump make it a favorite among enthusiasts of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade lacks specific standout features, but its overall performance is noteworthy. While the TTC Brother is categorized as crunchy, easy to press, and stepped, the Blue Jade doesn't fall under any specific categories. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Brother and the Outemu Blue Jade both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing results in a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. On the other hand, the Blue Jade utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. Both materials have their advantages, with polycarbonate offering a crisper sound while nylon provides a fuller sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the TTC Brother and the Outemu Blue Jade feature nylon materials. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making typing on these switches a more satisfying experience. While the top housing of a switch primarily impacts the sound when letting go of a key, the qualities of the bottom housing play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In this aspect, both switches share similar characteristics in sound production and tactile feedback due to the nylon bottom housings.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Brother and the Outemu Blue Jade result in distinct sound profiles for each switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Brother creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Blue Jade offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a more rounded sound profile, emphasizing the impact of the switch's tactile feedback. Despite the differences in materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is clear that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Brother has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Blue Jade has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, so it is difficult to directly compare them in that aspect. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - the lighter actuation force of the Brother may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier actuation force of the Blue Jade may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would come down to individual typing preferences and what feels most comfortable for the user.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, we can see that the Brother has a travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Blue Jade has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Blue Jade has a slightly longer travel distance than the Brother. A 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Brother with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Blue Jade. Both switches offer a satisfying clicky sound, but the minor difference in travel distance may appeal to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
The Outemu Blue Jade 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 TTC Brother clicky switch offers a distinctly crunchy and satisfying auditory experience that is synonymous with clicky switches. Each key press is accompanied by a clear and precise click that is sure to please enthusiasts who enjoy a pronounced typing sound. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is unknown, but it is worth noting that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate each key. This light actuation force promotes effortless typing and reduces finger fatigue during extended use, providing a comfortable typing experience overall. Additionally, the tactile bump of the Brother switch is described as stepped, offering a mild and distinct feedback without being overly pronounced. Unfortunately, information regarding the tactile feel of the Outemu Blue Jade switch is not available for comparison.
Considering the information provided, it is evident that the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in both sound and feel qualities, making it a top choice for those seeking a responsive and satisfying typing experience. While details about the Outemu Blue Jade switch are limited, it is likely that users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when compared to the Brother switch due to their shared clicky switch design. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches would come down to personal preference and individual typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider the specific qualities each switch offers. Opt for the TTC Brother if you prefer a lightweight switch with a breezy actuation, satisfyingly crunchy sound, and a tactile bump that strikes a perfect balance between feedback and subtlety. On the other hand, choose the Outemu Blue Jade if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a different typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel while typing.
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