Outemu Blue Jade vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Black present two distinct choices for users seeking different typing experiences. The Outemu Blue Jade is a clicky switch, providing a tactile bump and audible click with each key press, offering a satisfying feedback for typists who enjoy the feeling and sound of a mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes without any tactile bump or audible click, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that appeal to different 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
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches offer distinct differences in terms of sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Blue Jade's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Black's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the choice between them ultimately depends on the desired sound and feel for the user.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials of the two switches, both the Blue Jade and the Dustproof Black utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound. Despite both switches using the same bottom housing material, the impact on the overall typing experience may vary due to differences in the top housing material. This highlights the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials when selecting a switch for a specific use case, whether it be for gaming, typing, or aesthetics.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile, feel, and overall performance of the switch. While the Blue Jade and Dustproof Black switches may share similarities in bottom housing material (nylon), the use of different top housing materials (nylon for Blue Jade and polycarbonate for Dustproof Black) contributes to distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. Understanding the impact of each housing material on sound and feel is essential for users looking to enhance their typing experience or customize their switches based on personal preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Jade and Dustproof Black housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, which has an actuation force of 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Jade requires 65 grams, while the Dustproof Black requires 80 grams, making it heavier in this aspect. The Blue Jade offers a medium-heavy feel, whereas the Dustproof Black provides a heavier typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Blue Jade for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those looking for a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Dustproof Black. In terms of actuation force, the results with both switches can be similar enough to provide a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with their identical travel distances, making them suitable options for individuals who prefer a standard key press feel. Despite their different switch types (clicky vs. linear), the travel distance remains the same, ensuring that users can expect a familiar typing experience regardless of their preference for clicky feedback or linear smoothness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Blue Jade and Dustproof Black.
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 Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is known for its crisp and tactile feedback, producing a satisfying click sound with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is known for its smooth and quiet operation, offering a more subdued typing experience. When it comes to sound, the Blue Jade switch will provide a more audible click compared to the Dustproof Black switch, which is much quieter.
In terms of feel, the Blue Jade switch offers a tactile bump at the actuation point, providing a noticeable feedback to the typist. This can result in a more tactile typing experience, with the keypress feeling more pronounced. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black switch offers a linear actuation with no tactile bump, resulting in a smooth and consistent keystroke. This can lead to a more fluid typing experience without the distraction of a tactile bump.
Overall, when looking at the subjective qualities of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences. If you prefer a clicky and tactile switch with a more pronounced sound and feedback, the Blue Jade switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Dustproof Black switch would be a better choice. Both switches are excellent options depending on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a satisfying clicking sound with medium-heavy resistance, the Blue Jade would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, the Dustproof Black may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs and typing habits.
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