KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Lightning, a linear switch, and the Outemu Blue Jade, a clicky switch, it becomes evident that they offer different experiences for mechanical keyboard users. The Lightning switches are renowned for their speed, making them ideal for gaming scenarios where split-second reactions can make a difference between victory and defeat. Typing on Lightning switches provides a smooth tactile feel with a distinctive clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switches stand out for their satisfying clicky feedback, providing a tactile response that some users crave during typing or gaming sessions. While the Lightning switches are characterized by a 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'chirpy', 'subtle', and 'polished' profile, the Blue Jade switches do not have any specific categorizations. 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Blue Jade, we can see that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. However, the Lightning uses polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Blue Jade utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound produced by each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the KTT Lightning's polycarbonate top housing allows for the use of RGB lighting due to its translucency. This can be a desirable feature for those looking to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting effects. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of transparency, making it less ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. Despite this difference, both switches still offer a unique sound profile that can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer a specific type of sound feedback.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Blue Jade will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetic considerations. While both switches offer a deep and full sound due to their nylon bottom housing, the use of polycarbonate in the Lightning's top housing creates a sharper sound compared to the Blue Jade's rounder tone. Additionally, the ability to customize with RGB lighting may sway some users towards the Lightning, while others may prefer the Blue Jade for its classic nylon construction.Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, with each housing material contributing unique characteristics to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, we see that the Lightning is lighter in both categories. The Lightning has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Blue Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lightning make it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming for extended periods. On the other hand, the Blue Jade offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, making it suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, making it ideal for those looking for a shorter and more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, providing a deeper and more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a bit more depth in their typing. While the Lightning offers a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, the Blue Jade gives a more deliberate feel with its longer travel distance. Both switches have their own advantages based on personal preference, with the Lightning being the shorter option and the Blue Jade being the longer option. If you enjoy a traditional travel distance, the Blue Jade may be more suitable for you, while if you prefer a faster response time, the Lightning would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to individual typing preferences and priorities.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, 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 KTT Lightning linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving off a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. It also has a unique chirpy quality that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available, so it's hard to directly compare the sound between the two. However, it can be assumed that the Blue Jade may offer a louder and more tactile clicking sound compared to the Lightning.
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch is described as subtle and polished, providing a gentle resistance and a smooth typing experience. This combination of light typing feel and refined finish makes them suitable for shared spaces and ensures a comfortable typing experience. Unfortunately, there are no feel descriptors available for the Outemu Blue Jade switch, making it difficult to directly compare the feel between the two switches.
Overall, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile, making it a popular choice for those looking for speed switches that can make a difference in competitive gameplay. While the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch may offer a louder and more tactile clicking sound, its feel and other subjective qualities remain unknown. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with similar qualities to the KTT Lightning, you may want to consider other linear switches with known characteristics in both sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider your priorities. If you prioritize speed and precise keystrokes in competitive gaming or fast-paced typing situations, the Lightning switch with its light bottom out force of 50 grams may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy the crisp, sharp sound of clicky switches, the Blue Jade switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to your personal typing style, sound preference, and tactile feedback preference. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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