Outemu Blue Jade vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch present distinct options for different preferences. The Blue Jade is best known for its clicky feedback and tactile response, making it a popular choice among typists who enjoy a satisfying clicking sound with each key press. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switch stands out for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, offering a quiet typing experience that some users prefer. While the Blue Jade is categorized as a clicky switch, the RedBlue falls into the linear switch category. If you prioritize a loud and tactile typing experience, the Blue Jade may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a quieter and smoother feel while typing, the RedBlue could be the better option for you. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and the SP-Star RedBlue, one major difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Blue Jade features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the nylon top housing of the Blue Jade provides a more rounded sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the RedBlue delivers a clearer and more resonant sound.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Blue Jade and RedBlue switches share a similar nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its effect on the top housing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue switch would have provided a sharper and crisper sound compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Jade.
Overall, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom components of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the keypress. While the Blue Jade and RedBlue switches may differ in their top housing material, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile. Additionally, the contrasting qualities of nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing offer users distinct options for achieving either a softer, more rounded sound with the Blue Jade or a sharper, clearer sound with the RedBlue. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials influences the overall typing experience and sound feedback of the switches.
Weight
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch. The Blue Jade requires 50 grams of force to actuate, while the actuation force of the RedBlue is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Jade is heavier, requiring 65 grams compared to the 57 grams of the RedBlue. The Blue Jade offers a medium-heavy typing experience, which some may find more substantial and satisfying, while the RedBlue provides a medium-light touch that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Overall, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the RedBlue, while those who enjoy a heavier touch may opt for the Blue Jade. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, and selecting the right one depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that they provide a similar experience in terms of keypress feel. Despite the fact that they are both equal in travel distance, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch may feel slightly different due to its clicky mechanism compared to the linear feel of the SP-Star RedBlue switch. Overall, both switches offer a consistent keypress experience with a 4 mm travel distance, making them suitable options for those looking for a standard keypress feel in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 Outemu Blue Jade switch is known for its distinct clicky sound that is satisfyingly loud and crisp. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is relatively mellow and bass-heavy. This difference in sound is important to consider when choosing a switch based on your preference for noise level and tone. Additionally, factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used can also influence the overall sound produced by the switches.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue Jade switch provides a tactile typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump and audible click. In comparison, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a mild and polished typing experience that is smooth and refined. The RedBlue switch falls in a safe middle ground zone, providing a gentle typing experience that can be approachable to most users. The polished finish of the RedBlue switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel.
Overall, while the Outemu Blue Jade and SP-Star RedBlue switches differ in sound and feel, they both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Blue Jade is best suited for those who enjoy a loud and tactile typing experience, while the RedBlue switch is ideal for users looking for a quieter and smoother typing feel. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths, and the choice between them will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider your preference for typing force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound, the Blue Jade switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound and a polished feel, the RedBlue linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics that align with your typing style. Choose wisely and enjoy your mechanical keyboard experience!
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