Cherry MX Red vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Blue Jade mechanical keyboard switches, two distinct options emerge with their own unique characteristics. The Cherry MX Red is a linear switch, well-known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade is a clicky switch with a different typing experience, yet lacks specific noteworthy features beyond categorization as standard. While the MX Red may be preferred for its thocky, low-pitched, and textured attributes, the Blue Jade's appeal may lie in its quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Blue Jade switches, both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. The use of nylon in the housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as nylon is known to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches. Overall, the nylon housing materials in the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Blue Jade switches are quite similar in their impact on sound production and typing feel.
However, while both switches use nylon for their housing materials, the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Blue Jade may differ in their specific typing experiences due to other factors such as spring weight and stem design. The Cherry MX Red is known for its linear feel with a light actuation force, making it ideal for gaming and fast typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switch features a clicky feedback with a tactile bump, providing a more pronounced typing experience. These differences in switch design, alongside the shared nylon housing material, showcase how various elements come together to create a unique typing experience for each switch.
In terms of housing material impact, it is important to note that the top and bottom housing in a switch can have distinct effects on sound and feel. The bottom housing's properties can influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing can impact the sound when a key is released. Despite both the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Blue Jade switches utilizing nylon for their housing, the overall typing experience may still vary between the two due to the different characteristics of their respective switch designs. By considering the housing materials alongside other switch components, users can choose a switch that best suits their preferences for typing and gaming.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Red is unknown, whereas the Outemu Blue Jade has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Cherry MX Red would be the better option, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more substantial feel and a stronger push, the Outemu Blue Jade would be the ideal choice for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches have their advantages, and the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference for weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on either switch, users will experience the same distance traveled from top to bottom. This means that whether typing on a keyboard with Cherry MX Red linear switches or Outemu Blue Jade clicky switches, the overall feel and experience in terms of travel distance will be similar.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 Cherry MX Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience, producing a deep and rich sound profile that is satisfying to many users. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, but clicky switches like the Blue Jade are known for their audible click when pressed, offering a tactile and satisfying typing experience. In terms of feel, the MX Red is described as textured, providing users with a noticeable friction when pressed that some may prefer for added feedback. While the feel of the Outemu Blue Jade switch is not specifically described, clicky switches like the Blue Jade typically offer a tactile bump when pressed, providing users with a satisfying sensation.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the MX Red switch provides a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile with its textured design, the Blue Jade switch likely offers a satisfying tactile bump and clicky sound experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer the MX Red or the Blue Jade will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound. However, both switches are popular choices in the mechanical keyboard community and are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you value a smoother and quieter typing experience with a slightly heavier feel, the Cherry MX Red switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, then the Outemu Blue Jade switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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