Gazzew LT vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew LT and the Outemu Blue Jade. The LT switch is a linear switch that is characterized by its enticing lilac hue and deep, resonant thockiness when typing. It offers a seamless glide with every keystroke and is best suited for those who enjoy a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Blue Jade switch is a clicky switch that lacks specific defining characteristics. Clicky switches are known for their tactile feedback and audible clicks when typing. While both switches have their advantages, it ultimately boils down to personal preference. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the Outemu Blue Jade switches share similarities in their ability to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. Both the Gazzew LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing and the Blue Jade's nylon top housing are designed to create a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is achieved through the softness of the plastic used in both housings, which absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the Gazzew LT's blend is specifically known as "boba plastic," adding a unique touch to its sound profile.
One key difference between the two housing materials lies in their composition. The Gazzew LT utilizes a proprietary plastic blend for both the top and bottom housings, while the Outemu Blue Jade switches use nylon for their top and bottom housings. The choice of materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches, as nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to deliver a deeper sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT's proprietary blend, with its softness and unique characteristics, may offer a slightly different sound experience compared to the nylon housing of the Blue Jade.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall performance of the switches, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a major role in the sound when a key is released. This means that the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom can have a noticeable effect on the overall typing experience, dictating the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is clear that the Blue Jade is the lighter switch with an actuation force of 50 grams, while the LT has no specified actuation force. Both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, which puts them in the medium-heavy category. The difference in actuation force may result in a lighter typing experience for the Blue Jade switch, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the LT switch may provide a more substantial typing feel due to the unknown actuation force, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing experience and desired actuation force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Blue Jade clicky switch has the longer travel distance compared to the LT linear switch. The LT linear switch may provide a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking quick reactions. On the other hand, the Blue Jade clicky switch with its longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. 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?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50, 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
The Gazzew LT linear switch is known for its deep and resonant "thockiness" sound profile, which provides a satisfying auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch lacks a specific sound description, making it difficult to accurately compare the two switches in terms of sound. Moving on to the feel, the information provided does not offer any insight into the tactile experience of either switch. Therefore, it is unclear how the LT linear switch and the Blue Jade clicky switch compare in terms of key feel and tactile feedback.
Overall, based on the available information, it is evident that the Gazzew LT linear switch excels in providing a bassy and thocky sound profile, along with a smooth keystroke experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch lacks a detailed sound description and information on tactile feel. As a result, while the LT linear switch offers a well-defined auditory and tactile experience, the Blue Jade clicky switch leaves certain qualities unknown. Both switches may provide different results in terms of sound and feel, ultimately catering to individual preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you're looking for a switch with a unique auditory experience, smooth keystrokes, and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gazzew LT linear switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy the tactile feedback of clicky switches, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch could be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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