Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Outemu Blue Jade, each presenting unique attributes to enhance your typing experience. The Cherry MX Purple RGB is celebrated for its refined tactile feedback, featuring a short yet pronounced bump that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort—perfect for those who appreciate a tactile feel without excessive force. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade's characteristic clicky response produces an audible sound and tactile feedback that many typists find satisfying, making it an excellent option for users who enjoy that classic typing sensation reminiscent of older typewriters. While the MX Purple RGB is a great choice for those who prefer a quieter yet tactile experience, the Blue Jade caters to individuals who thrive on the click and the robust sensation in every keystroke. 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
N/A
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
Nylon
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 housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Outemu Blue Jade switches share a notable similarity in that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is significant for both switches, as nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its relative softness compared to harder plastics, nylon effectively absorbs sound, leading to a more muted and rounded auditory experience. This shared characteristic implies that both switches will produce a similar sound quality when being used, appealing to users who prioritize acoustic performance in their typing experiences.
Despite this similarity in material, the acoustic qualities can manifest differently depending on the design and structure of each switch. While both the MX Purple RGB and the Blue Jade have nylon housings, the overall sound profile experienced during keypresses is influenced by additional factors, including switch actuation mechanics and design nuances. For example, even if both switches sound fuller due to their nylon construction, the specifics of how each switch mechanism is designed can create differences in the bottom-out sound and key release sound. Thus, while the material contributes to a similar base sound, the overall auditory feedback and tactile experience may vary between these two switches.
In essence, the nylon used in the top and bottom housings of both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Outemu Blue Jade allows for a comparable foundational sound quality, yet the outcomes in typing experience will hinge on additional design features unique to each switch. Users can expect a generally similar auditory profile, but nuances in actuation and key response will result in a distinct feel. The interplay of nylon with the individual construction of each switch will yield a well-rounded sound experience that appeals to tactile and auditory preference, regardless of the slight differences they exhibit in operation.
Weight
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch exhibit distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom-out forces. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features an actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it lighter and potentially more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade necessitates a stronger actuation force of 50 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Moreover, the Blue Jade switch has a bottom-out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while the bottom-out force for the Cherry MX Purple RGB remains unspecified. Consequently, while the actuation forces differ, the MX Purple RGB is the lighter option, making it preferable for those who prioritize less strain during extended use, while the heavier Blue Jade switch may cater to users who enjoy a firmer tactile response.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch both share an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar tactile feedback experience when pressing down on either switch. With both switches traveling the same distance from the top to the bottom, they will provide comparable results in terms of keystroke feel and depth. This similarity in travel distance highlights that whether one is using the MX Purple RGB or the Blue Jade, the overall typing experience will have a uniformity that appeals to those who enjoy a consistent tactile sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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
The sound produced by the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is refined and satisfying, presenting a softer acoustic profile that strikes a balance between being noticeable without being overly loud. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch generates a distinct and sharp sound with every keystroke, characterized by a pronounced "click" that resonates clearly. This makes the Blue Jade switch an engaging choice for typists who enjoy audible feedback, while the MX Purple RGB provides a more subdued experience, appealing to those who might prefer a quieter typing environment but still appreciate tactile feedback.
When it comes to feel, the MX Purple RGB offers a well-defined tactile bump that is medium in strength, providing a comforting resistance that many users find perfect for both typing and gaming. Its short actuation travel ensures a comfortable and responsive experience. The Outemu Blue Jade, on the other hand, delivers a more traditional clicky feel with a significant tactile bump, giving typists a lively sensation at each actuation. Users looking for a more pronounced tactile feedback may favor the Blue Jade, while those who seek a balance between tactile and smooth keystrokes may gravitate towards the MX Purple RGB.
In conclusion, both switches cater to different typist preferences while providing distinct qualities. The Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a refined tactile experience and mellower sound profile, ideal for those who desire comfort with subtle feedback. The Outemu Blue Jade, with its loud click and pronounced tactile feel, is perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate bold auditory and haptic responses. Ultimately, both switches can help you achieve satisfying typing experiences, but your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a quieter and refined tactile sensation or an engaging and clicky feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch largely depends on your typing preferences and use case. If you lean towards a more refined tactile experience with a medium-strength bump, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is the way to go, particularly if you appreciate a balanced actuation without an overpowering bottom-out force. This switch is ideal for gamers and typists who seek quick feedback and a smooth keypress without the distraction of loud clicks. On the other hand, if you enjoy pronounced auditory and tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue Jade will be suited to your needs with its 65-gram bottom-out force providing a more substantial resistance, which can be satisfying for those who appreciate a classic clicky typing experience. This switch can be a great fit for typing enthusiasts who revel in the nostalgia of old-school keyboards and require the tactile loudness to signal when a key has been pressed. Ultimately, consider your typing style, sound preferences, and whether you prioritize tactile feedback or an audible click when making your selection.
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