Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Blue Jade mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that they offer distinctive typing experiences. The Crystal switch stands out for its linear design, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke that is perfect for those who prefer a straightforward typing experience. In contrast, the Blue Jade switch is a clicky switch that offers tactile feedback and audible clicks with each key press, appealing to users who enjoy a more dynamic and responsive typing feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Blue Jade, it is evident that the Crystal utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, while the Blue Jade features nylon for both components. The Crystal's polycarbonate housing is praised for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Blue Jade's nylon housing gives off a deeper and fuller sound profile as its softer material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite their differences, both housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Additionally, the choice of housing material for the top and bottom components of a switch can affect the typing experience differently. With the Crystal's polycarbonate top and bottom housings, the sharper and crisper sound profile is likely to be consistent throughout the keystroke, providing a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Blue Jade's nylon top and bottom housings may offer a deeper sound profile when bottoming out a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This showcases how the material composition of the housing can impact various aspects of typing, from the initial press to the release of a key.
Overall, understanding the differences between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and feel. While the Crystal's polycarbonate housing delivers a sharper sound profile, the Blue Jade's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether one prefers the clarity of polycarbonate or the richness of nylon, both housing materials contribute uniquely to the overall typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is clear that the Crystal is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Blue Jade. The Crystal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Blue Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Crystal provides a lighter typing experience overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may find the Crystal to be more suitable for their needs. On the other hand, the Blue Jade offers a heavier typing experience, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches provide tactile feedback but with varying levels of force required for activation and bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on either key, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom of the switch. This consistency in travel distance provides a similar tactile experience for users, regardless of which switch they choose to use. The equal travel distance also ensures that both switches offer a familiar typing feel, with a consistent amount of distance traveled when pressing down on the keys. In conclusion, both the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Blue Jade switches offer users a similar travel distance, making them a reliable choice for those looking for a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, 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 Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched profile, giving off a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, so it may be safe to assume it has a more traditional clicky sound. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as having a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, there is no specific feel descriptor provided for the Outemu Blue Jade switch, so it may be best to try them out to determine their unique feel.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a polished feel, making it a great choice for those looking for something different in their mechanical keyboard switches. While information on the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is limited, it may still provide a satisfying typing experience with its clicky sound profile. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a smooth key travel, then the Crystal switch might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound and a more tactile feel, then the Blue Jade switch could be the way to go. Consider what qualities are most important to you in a keyboard switch and make your decision based on that. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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