KTT Mint vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint 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 that come to mind are the KTT Mint and the Outemu Blue Jade. The mint, a linear switch, is favored for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience and poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. Additionally, users can expect a light and fleeting typing feel with this switch. On the other hand, the Blue Jade, a clicky switch, also offers a unique typing experience, although specific characteristics are not highlighted in the provided information. While the mint is described as low-pitched, neutral, mild, polished, the Blue Jade’s qualities remain unknown. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and typing style; 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Outemu Blue Jade, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This results in a similar typing experience, as nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Typing on both switches will likely provide a smooth and quiet operation, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience.
However, the top housings of the Mint and the Blue Jade differ significantly, with the Mint featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Blue Jade opts for a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Mint creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiff plastic composition that leads to a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Blue Jade creates a duller and rounder sound, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience on a mechanical keyboard.
Overall, while the bottom housings of the KTT Mint and the Outemu Blue Jade offer a similar typing experience due to their nylon composition, the top housings play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Mint creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Blue Jade produces a deeper and fuller sound, perfect for users who enjoy a softer and more rounded typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Mint has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Blue Jade's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes on the Mint. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mint requires 53 grams, while the Blue Jade needs 65 grams, indicating a heavier feel when pressing keys all the way down on the Blue Jade switch. This means that the Mint switch is lighter overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, whereas the Blue Jade switch is heavier, providing a more substantial feel and satisfying click for those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance. The uniformity in travel distance between these two switches allows for consistent typing experiences, with both offering a satisfying key press feel. Whether you choose the KTT Mint or the Outemu Blue Jade, you can expect a reliable and comfortable typing experience due to their matching travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone while still being suitable for a variety of uses. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound profile is unknown. When it comes to feel, the Mint switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle feel with smooth key travel. The Blue Jade's feel is also unknown. Overall, while the Mint switch offers a satisfyingly smooth linear experience with a poppy thockiness and light feel, we lack information on the sound and feel qualities of the Blue Jade. As such, if sound and feel are important factors to you, you may want to opt for the Mint switch to ensure you get a similar typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a light and fleeting feel, the KTT Mint linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The low-pitched and neutral sound profile of the Mint adds to the overall pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a clicky switch that provides a tactile feedback and audible click, the Outemu Blue Jade switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch would depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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