Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Blue Jade, both of which are clicky switches. The Gateron Melodic stands out for its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing users with a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback while maintaining a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade does not have any specific standout features mentioned. The Gateron Melodic is described as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy', whereas no specific characteristics are listed for the Outemu Blue Jade. If you are looking for a clicky switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a classic clicky sound, the Gateron Melodic may be the way to go. 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
60g
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Melodic and Outemu Blue Jade both feature nylon bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with stiffer housing materials. In terms of typing experience, the bottom housing of both switches will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Gateron Melodic stands out with its polycarbonate material that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches intended for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the sound experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, but with a duller and rounder tone compared to the sharper sound of polycarbonate.
In conclusion, while both switches share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Gateron Melodic's polycarbonate top housing sets it apart with a sharper and crisper sound, particularly suitable for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade's nylon top housing offers a softer and rounder sound profile, providing a different typing experience compared to the Melodic. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the specific sound and feel preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Melodic switch has a light actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less effort. However, it has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance when fully pressing down. In contrast, the Blue Jade switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, requiring a bit more pressure to register a keystroke. Additionally, it has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy and offers a more substantial typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Melodic switch would be the better choice, while the Blue Jade switch is more suitable for those who prefer a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for users.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of travel distance. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying typing experience with their comparable travel distances. Whether you choose the Melodic or the Blue Jade, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Gateron Melodic switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, providing a higher-pitched sound profile with a clean and sharp click that is reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switch's sound profile remains unknown. Both switches will provide a satisfying auditory experience, but the Melodic switch may offer a more immersive and crisp sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Melodic switch is known for its buttery and invigorating typing feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Blue Jade switch remains a mystery. Both switches will likely offer a tactile typing experience, but the Melodic switch may provide a more seamless and engaging feel due to its specific design and characteristics.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic and Outemu Blue Jade switches each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Melodic switch boasts a resonant and crunchy sound along with a buttery and invigorating typing feel, the Blue Jade switch's qualities remain unknown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound, feel, and other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. If you enjoy a smooth and immersive typing experience with a crisp click sound, the Gateron Melodic switch may be the ideal choice for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and enjoy a resonant and crunchy sound profile with a buttery and invigorating typing feel, the Gateron Melodic switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch that offers a unique sound and feel experience, the Outemu Blue Jade switch might be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience.
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