KTT Orange vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Orange linear switch to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, there are several key differences to consider. The KTT Orange switch is praised for its bouncy feel and frictionless typing experience, thanks to its long spring and factory-lubed components. This switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switch lacks specific standout features in terms of design but falls under the clicky switch category. Clicky switches are known for their tactile feedback and audible click sound, making them popular among typists who enjoy auditory cues while typing. 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
46g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Outemu Blue Jade, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics to enhance the sound profile of the switches. The Orange's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer nature that produces a more resonant sound. On the other hand, the Blue Jade's nylon top housing is described as providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between a sharper sound with polycarbonate or a deeper sound with nylon ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the similarities and differences between the KTT Orange and Outemu Blue Jade continue to be evident. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Orange mirrors the top housing in its ability to produce a sharper and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Jade maintains its promise of a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in housing materials for the bottom of the switches highlights how each component plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound experience when typing or gaming.
Overall, whether you choose the KTT Orange or the Outemu Blue Jade, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The use of polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings of the Orange results in a consistent sharp and resonant sound, while the nylon top and bottom housings of the Blue Jade offer a deeper and fuller sound. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a dynamic sound experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound upon key release. Ultimately, the choice between the Orange and Blue Jade housing materials comes down to personal sound preferences and the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is clear that the Orange is lighter in both aspects. The Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. In contrast, the Blue Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Orange switch, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Blue Jade switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Blue Jade has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Orange. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the keys. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Orange switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Blue Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference when it comes to key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 KTT Orange linear switch is well-known for its low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown. When it comes to feel, the Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, giving a spring-like feedback and minimal resistance when typing. The specific feel of the Blue Jade switch is not specified. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound profile, smooth key travel, and a bouncy feel, the KTT Orange switch would be a great choice. However, if you are looking for a different sound or feel, more information on the Outemu Blue Jade switch would be needed to make a direct comparison.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are seeking a clicky switch with a different feel, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Consider these factors carefully when choosing between the two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
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