Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red, a linear switch, and the Outemu Blue Jade, a clicky switch, you'll find that each offers a unique typing experience. The Ink Red is ideal for those with a lighter typing style due to its lower actuation force, providing a smooth and satisfying typing experience. With a crispy and clacky sound profile, the Ink Red switch is effortless to type on and is characterized by a neutral, silky, chirpy, mild, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade is known for its clicky feedback, providing a tactile response with each key press. While the Blue Jade switch may not have as defined characteristics as the Ink Red, it offers a different typing experience that some users may prefer. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Blue Jade, a clear distinction can be seen in the sound profiles they offer. The Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and high-pitched sound described as clacky. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade utilizes a nylon top housing which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The difference in sound quality between the two switches can be attributed to the softer nature of nylon compared to the INK blend, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both switches offer similar characteristics in terms of sound profile. The Gateron Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to the same pointed and high-pitched sound profile found in the top housing. Similarly, the Outemu Blue Jade's nylon bottom housing continues to elicit a deep and full sound profile, complementing the nylon top housing. This consistency in sound quality throughout the switch, regardless of top or bottom housing material, ensures a harmonious typing experience for users of both switches.
It is important to note that the housing materials of a switch play a significant role in determining its overall sound profile. While the Gateron Ink Red and Outemu Blue Jade may have different housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. The split between top and bottom housing qualities allows for a balanced sound output, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, whether using the Gateron Ink Red or the Outemu Blue Jade, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is clear that the Blue Jade is slightly heavier than the Ink Red. The Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Blue Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy force range, making them suitable for users who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes. Those who like lighter switches might find the Ink Red more to their liking, as it requires slightly less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Blue Jade might be the better option due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. When comparing the two switches, their travel distances are the same, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. Although both switches have the same travel distance, they offer different typing experiences due to the Ink Red being a linear switch while the Blue Jade is a clicky switch. Linear switches provide a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, whereas clicky switches have a tactile bump and audible click to indicate actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a linear or clicky typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a crisp and clacky sound profile, making each keystroke satisfying to the ear. It falls under the descriptor of "Neutral" with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have a defined sound descriptor provided, but clicky switches are generally known for their loud and tactile feedback. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Ink Red providing a smoother and more moderate sound compared to the potentially louder and more pronounced sound of the Blue Jade.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, making it effortless and comfortable for users with a lighter typing style. With descriptors like "Mild" and "Polished," the Ink Red switch falls into the category of offering a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have specific feel descriptors provided. Clicky switches like the Blue Jade typically offer a tactile and satisfying feedback with each key press, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red provides a smoother and more moderate typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile, ideal for users with a lighter typing style. On the other hand, the Blue Jade offers a potentially louder and more tactile feedback with each key press, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who prefers a lighter typing experience and values a smooth feel with a crispy sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier typing feel along with a clicky sound, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and enjoy a satisfying typing experience on your mechanical keyboard.
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