Durock Medium Tactile vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Blue Jade offer unique experiences for users. The Durock Medium Tactile is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature that adds a certain charm to typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade is known for its clicky nature, providing a satisfying audible feedback with each key press. While the Medium Tactile may be preferred for its tactile feedback, the Blue Jade stands out for its satisfying clickiness. 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
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Blue Jade switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile and feel of typing. The Medium Tactile's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and clearer sound, thanks to its stiff nature that enhances resonance. In contrast, the Blue Jade's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder profile. While both switches have different top housings, they each offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound while typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a rounder and duller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, providing a tactile experience that enhances the overall typing experience. Despite the differences in top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile that prioritizes depth and resonance in both the Medium Tactile and Blue Jade switches.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom components of a switch can result in a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of both materials. The top housing influences the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. The blend of polycarbonate and nylon in the Medium Tactile and Outemu Blue Jade switches offers a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, providing users with a diverse range of options to cater to their preference for typing feedback. Whether opting for the sharper clarity of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with distinct characteristics that set them apart.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch vary in some aspects. The Durock Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the actuation force is not specified. In comparison, the Outemu Blue Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, providing a consistent typing experience in that aspect. However, the Blue Jade requires a lighter actuation force compared to the Durock Medium Tactile, which may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that you will get a similar keypress experience with both switches, as they offer the same amount of travel distance. This can provide users with consistent feedback and actuation regardless of which switch they choose. In terms of travel distance, these two switches are equal in length, making them both a great option for those looking for a tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, creating a unique auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switch's sound qualities are not specified. It is essential to consider that the sound produced by a switch can vary based on factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
When it comes to the tactile feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as having an accented tactility. This means that it offers a prominent level of tactile feedback without being overpowering or too subtle. Additionally, it is noted as having a stepped feel, providing a two-stage tactile sensation with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. The switch is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground. The polished finish of the Medium Tactile switch ensures smooth key travel with reduced friction. Unfortunately, the specific tactile qualities of the Outemu Blue Jade switch are not mentioned.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a well-balanced combination of tactile feedback and sound characteristics. If you are looking for a switch that provides pronounced tactility without being too harsh, the Medium Tactile may be a suitable option. However, without details on the sound and feel of the Outemu Blue Jade switch, it is challenging to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you enjoy a pronounced yet balanced tactile feedback with a jelly-like sound, the Medium Tactile may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a unique sound and feel, the Blue Jade could be a better fit. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking. Experiment with both to see which one aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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