Zuoce Lavender vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Blue Jade stand out as popular options for different preferences. The Lavender is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its exceptional smoothness and satisfying clacky sound signature, providing an easy-to-press experience. On the other hand, the Blue Jade is a clicky switch that offers a distinct typing experience with a tactile bump and audible click. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and 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
48g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Blue Jade both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Lavender features POM top and bottom housings, which create a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Blue Jade's nylon top and bottom housings. The POM material of the Lavender absorbs sound differently than the nylon material of the Blue Jade, resulting in a distinct auditory experience for users of each switch. While both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, the material differences in their housings contribute to distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Despite their differences, the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Blue Jade share similarities in the way their housing materials affect sound. Both switches elicit a deeper sound profile due to the unique properties of their respective materials – POM for the Lavender and nylon for the Blue Jade. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound compared to the harder POM material, resulting in a rounder and fuller sound for both switches. While they may have different top and bottom housings, the overall sound experience of typing on these switches is characterized by a deep and pleasing sound that sets them apart from other switches on the market.
The impact of housing materials on switch sound can be felt in different ways depending on whether the top or bottom housing is used. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that the POM top and bottom housings of the Zuoce Lavender contribute differently to the overall sound experience compared to the nylon top and bottom housings of the Outemu Blue Jade. Understanding how each housing material interacts with the user's typing experience can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences and needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is evident that the Lavender has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Blue Jade's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lavender requires 53 grams, which is lighter than the Blue Jade's 65 grams. The Lavender switch provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Blue Jade switch offers a medium-heavy feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Lavender switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing might find the Blue Jade switch more satisfying. In either case, both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender switch would provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Blue Jade switch with its longer travel distance might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, more responsive feel or a longer, more deliberate key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its clacky and sharp sound signature, providing a distinct and satisfying keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself, but also by the keyboard housing, keycaps, and other factors.
When it comes to feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch is recognized for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The feel of the Outemu Blue Jade switch is unknown, making it challenging to make a direct comparison on this aspect.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and clacky sound signature, as well as its easy-to-press feel. While the qualities of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch are not fully known in this comparison, it's important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, so it's essential to consider all available information before making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, you should consider your preference for smoothness and sound. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound, then the Lavender switch with its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a clicky sound without much additional information available, the Blue Jade switch might be the right fit for you. Ultimately, selecting the perfect switch comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire. Choose wisely based on your individual needs and enjoy the satisfying typing experience that suits you best.
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