Keygeek Keylin vs. Outemu Blue Jade

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often hinges on personal preference for typing feel and sound. The Keygeek Keylin is a linear switch renowned for its premium typing experience, characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quiet and seamless keystroke, ideal for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade is a clicky switch that provides tactile feedback and an audible click with each keystroke, perfect for typists who enjoy the satisfaction of auditory and physical cues while typing, which can enhance typing speed and accuracy. While both switches have unique benefits—smoothness and silence versus tactile feedback and sound—your ultimate choice will depend on whether you prefer the understated elegance of a linear switch or the engaging experience offered by a clicky switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Keygeek Keylin Linear

Outemu Blue Jade Clicky

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Keygeek Keylin and the Outemu Blue Jade switches utilize the same nylon material for both their top and bottom housings, a quality that highlights the consistency in performance and sound profile between these two switch types. Nylon, being a softer plastic compared to others typically used in switch construction, contributes to a deep and rich sound when keys are pressed. This softness helps absorb some of the impact during keystrokes, resulting in a sound that is muted yet fuller, creating a pleasant typing experience. Since both switches employ nylon in their construction, users can expect very similar acoustic qualities, regardless of which switch they choose.

In the realm of tactile feedback, both switches also demonstrate a harmonious blend of characteristics due to their nylon housings. The Keylin's bottom housing plays a significant role in the feel of the bottom-out action, while the top housing contributes to the aural experience as the key is released. Given that both switches feature the same materials, the tactile experience will resonate similarly, delivering a cohesive and pleasant feel whether one is typing rapidly or engaging in more deliberate keystrokes. The uniform use of nylon across their design ensures that users will have a comparable interaction with either switch, minimizing potential discrepancies in performance.

While both Keygeek Keylin and Outemu Blue Jade utilize identical materials, it’s important to acknowledge that the overall experience may still be influenced by factors such as switch design, actuation force, and individual user preference. However, with the same nylon top and bottom housings in place, the core acoustic profile remains consistent. Thus, consumers can feel confident that, whether opting for the Keylin or the Blue Jade, they will encounter a similar auditory and tactile experience rooted in the qualities of nylon, reinforcing the notion that the choice between the two will largely revolve around personal preference rather than material differences.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces significantly affect the typing experience. The Keylin switch has a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it well-suited for users who type for extended periods, as it requires less effort to actuate keys. In contrast, the Blue Jade switch features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel. As a result, while the Keylin switch is generally lighter and easier to press, the Blue Jade offers a medium-heavy resistance that can enhance tactile feedback. Users seeking a less strenuous typing experience might lean towards the Keylin, while those who enjoy a more robust keypress might opt for the Blue Jade.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, the Keylin has a distance of 3.6 mm, while the Blue Jade measures 4 mm. This indicates that the Keylin is the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that is typically favored by gamers who seek faster reaction times. In contrast, the Blue Jade’s longer travel distance of 4 mm offers a more pronounced depth that some users may find preferable for a more satisfying typing experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference: if you enjoy the quicker actuation and snappier response of shorter travel, the Keylin may be the better fit, whereas the Blue Jade offers a more traditional and hearty depth for those who appreciate a more substantial press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is revered for its rich acoustics, which complement its smooth performance, creating a pleasant auditory experience during typing. The sound profile of the Keylin is characterized by a muted thock that is soft but satisfying, enhancing the overall typing ambiance without being intrusive. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have a specifically recognized sound profile, leaving its acoustic qualities less defined. However, given its clicky nature, one might expect a more pronounced sound when actuated, reminiscent of other similar clicky switches.

When it comes to feel, the Keylin linear switch excels with its exceptional smoothness, providing a seamless keystroke without any tactile bumps. This smooth action is ideal for those who prefer uninterrupted downward motion and a clean release, lending itself well to rapid typing. On the other hand, the Blue Jade switch's clicky design likely offers a tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback upon actuation. This distinct feeling can enhance typing rhythm and accuracy for users who enjoy a more interactive typing experience.

In conclusion, while the Keygeek Keylin linear switch offers a premium sound profile and an incredibly smooth feel, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch presents a different experience, likely emphasizing tactile feedback and a pronounced actuation sound. Each switch caters to unique preferences; the Keylin is perfect for those valuing smoothness and acoustics, whereas the Blue Jade could appeal to typists who enjoy a pronounced tactile and auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the subtleties of linear smoothness or the engaging feedback of clicky switches.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter actuation force and a smooth, linear feel that allows for rapid key presses without much resistance, the Keylin is an excellent option. It’s ideal for gaming or long typing sessions, where fatigue could be an issue, and its rich acoustics provide a satisfying experience without the distraction of clicks. On the other hand, if you thrive on tactile feedback and enjoy the satisfying clack of a clicky switch, then the Blue Jade is the way to go. With a heavier bottom-out force, it offers a more deliberate typing experience that many find enjoyable for typing work and programming, as the audible click serves as a clear confirmation of key presses. In the end, consider how you plan to use your keyboard and what sensation brings you the most joy; your ideal switch will enhance your overall typing experience greatly.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Keylin Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Blue Jade Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more