KTT Matcha vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Matcha, a tactile switch, to the Outemu Blue Jade, a clicky switch, both have their unique advantages to offer. The KTT Matcha stands out for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, users can enjoy a distinctly clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade is known for its clicky feedback, perfect for those who prefer audible and tactile typing feedback. 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Matcha and Outemu Blue Jade switches feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components. The Matcha utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. On the other hand, the Blue Jade incorporates nylon for both top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, the Matcha's polycarbonate housing produces a crisper sound, while the Blue Jade's nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound.
When comparing the top housing materials specifically, the polycarbonate used in the Matcha switch provides a clear and resonant sound profile that is often associated with sharp and high-pitched tones. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Blue Jade switch offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Matcha may be more visually appealing for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the nylon top housing of the Blue Jade focuses on creating a rich and full typing experience. Despite their differences, both housing materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in switch characteristics.
When considering the impact of the bottom housing on the overall typing experience, the KTT Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a crisp and clear bottom-out sound profile. The Blue Jade's nylon bottom housing, on the other hand, contributes to a rounder and duller sound when bottoming out keys. While the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the tactile feedback and overall typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Matcha and Outemu Blue Jade switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience based on the unique qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Matcha has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Blue Jade has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Matcha provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Blue Jade offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Both switches have their strengths, with the Matcha being lighter and the Blue Jade being heavier, catering to different preferences. Overall, those looking for a lighter touch should opt for the Matcha, while those seeking a heavier push feel should go for the Blue Jade.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equally responsive in terms of keypress depth. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience from both switches, as they will both require the same amount of force and travel distance to actuate. This makes them suitable for individuals who prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker and more precise typing. The similarity in travel distance also means that users can easily switch between keyboards featuring either switch without much adjustment needed. Overall, both the Matcha and the Blue Jade offer a consistent typing experience with their equal travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 KTT Matcha tactile switch is known for its clacky sound profile, which is described as sharp, snappy, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have a specified sound description. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Matcha is noted for its stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle qualities. This means that users can expect a switch with two stages of tactility, a responsive feel, a medium amount of tactile feedback, a light actuation force, and a gentle resistance for comfortable typing. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the feel of the Blue Jade switch.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a unique combination of tactile feedback and sound profile, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. While the feel and sound characteristics of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch are not specified, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing needs when choosing between these two switches. If you prefer a switch with similar qualities to the Matcha, you may opt for other switches with stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle characteristics for a comparable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and enjoy a comfortable, snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha switch would be a great choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a clacky sound when typing and enjoy a switch with stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, or subtle feel, the Matcha switch would be an excellent fit. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, the Blue Jade switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound signature.
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