KTT Darling vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and the Outemu Blue Jade offer distinct typing experiences. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, stands out with its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. The high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out provides a satisfying blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade, a clicky switch, offers a different experience with a crisp clicking sound upon actuation. While the Darling excels in providing a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Blue Jade focuses more on the audible feedback. Both switches have their unique qualities, appealing to different preferences. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Blue Jade, we can see that both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. While both switches have a nylon bottom housing, the top housing material differs. The Darling uses a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound.
Despite the differences in the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Blue Jade, they both offer unique acoustic properties that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the Darling provides a more vibrant and crisp sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a sharper typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Blue Jade offers a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who enjoy a more muffled and rounded typing sound. While the bottom housing material may impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the importance of both materials in creating a well-rounded typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the KTT Darling and the Outemu Blue Jade ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the Darling provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Blue Jade offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a duller and rounder typing sound. Whether you prefer a more vibrant and resonant typing experience or a deeper and softer sound profile, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch differ in weight, with the Darling being lighter and the Blue Jade being heavier. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. In contrast, the Blue Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that the Darling will offer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Blue Jade will provide a more substantial push feel. Both switches prioritize different preferences, with the Darling catering to those who prefer lighter forces and the Blue Jade appealing to users who enjoy a heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and comfort levels.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is evident that the Darling has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Blue Jade has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling's travel distance is ideal for those seeking quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Blue Jade's longer travel distance may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Darling providing a swift and precise feel, while the Blue Jade delivers a more pronounced typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant typing experience, providing sharp and crisp sound feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available. Depending on the specific setup, the Darling may offer a more engaging auditory experience compared to the Blue Jade.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is characterized by its bouncy and responsive keystrokes, offering a springy feedback sensation as you type. Unfortunately, there are no specific feel descriptors available for the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch. If you prefer a switch that provides a lively and rebounding feel, the Darling may be the better choice for you.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch stands out for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, bouncy responsiveness, and resonant high-pitched sound feedback. While the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch may offer a different typing experience, the lack of specific descriptors makes it difficult to directly compare. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you enjoy a typing experience that is chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness and a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, then the Darling switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, the Blue Jade switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the tactile and auditory feedback offered by the Darling switch or the clicky responsiveness of the Blue Jade switch. Choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences to enhance your typing experience.
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