Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Blue Jade offer unique features catering to different preferences. The MX Speed Silver is a linear switch that is renowned for its rapid response, making it ideal for gamers seeking quick keystrokes without the added noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade is a clicky switch that provides a tactile feedback and audible click with each press, perfect for typists who enjoy the satisfying sound of each keystroke. Both switches have their own merits depending on individual preferences and needs; 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver and the Outemu Blue Jade, both switches utilize a nylon material for their top and bottom housings. This means that typing on switches from either of these switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, users can expect a more satisfying typing experience with both the MX Speed Silver and Blue Jade switches.
However, despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, there may be slight differences in the sound and feel of each switch due to variations in their design. For instance, the Blue Jade switch may have a slightly different tactile response compared to the MX Speed Silver, even though they both share the same nylon material for their housings. Additionally, the bottom housing of a switch tends to have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. These subtle differences can affect the overall typing experience for users who prefer one switch over the other.
Ultimately, while the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Blue Jade switches are similar, the design and construction of each switch may result in slight variations in typing feel and sound. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile, thanks to the absorption properties of nylon. Whether users prefer the MX Speed Silver or Blue Jade will likely depend on their personal preferences for tactile feedback and sound characteristics. Overall, both switches are constructed with quality materials that enhance the typing experience for users seeking a satisfying and responsive keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is clear that the MX Speed Silver is lighter in both categories. The Speed Silver has an actuation force of 30 grams, while the Blue Jade has a higher actuation force of 50 grams. Additionally, the MX Speed Silver has no specified bottom out force, while the Blue Jade has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a heavier switch overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the MX Speed Silver for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more significant typing feel may opt for the heavier Blue Jade switch. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch play a significant role in the typing experience and should be considered based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the MX Speed Silver offers a slightly quicker key press experience compared to the Blue Jade. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Blue Jade. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have specific sound descriptors available, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in terms of sound. However, it is worth noting that the sound produced by a switch can vary based on other factors such as keyboard construction and keycap material, so individual preferences play a significant role in the overall sound experience.
In regard to feel, the MX Speed Silver switch is described as having a textured feel, which may imply that there is some friction or tactile feedback when the switch is pressed. This texture can provide users with a unique typing experience that some may prefer for increased accuracy and control. Unfortunately, there are no specific feel descriptors available for the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, making it challenging to directly contrast its feel with that of the Cherry MX Speed Silver.
Overall, it is important to consider individual preferences and priorities when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch. While the Cherry MX Speed Silver offers a rapid response time favored by gamers and a distinct thocky sound profile, the Outemu Blue Jade switch may provide a different typing experience that is equally satisfying in its own right. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so experimenting with different switches and seeking out hands-on experience may be the best way to determine which one is the right fit for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you prioritize rapid response and speed, especially for gaming where every millisecond counts, the MX Speed Silver would be the better choice with its instantaneous triggering and low spring resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a satisfying clicky sound, the Blue Jade switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision boils down to what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch – speed or tactile feedback. Make your choice based on what will enhance your typing or gaming experience the most.
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