Outemu Blue Jade vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue Jade and KTT Semi Mute offer unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The Outemu Blue Jade is a clicky switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback and audible click with each key press. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it ideal for creating a noise-free environment while typing. The Blue Jade is best suited for those who enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience, while the Semi Mute is perfect for individuals who prefer a smoother and quieter key press. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and KTT Semi Mute switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Blue Jade's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate housing yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound as a result of its stiffer plastic composition. Additionally, the polycarbonate material's translucency makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the sound experience.
While the Blue Jade and Semi Mute switches share similarities in having a nylon top housing, the differences in their bottom housings highlight the unique qualities each switch possesses. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Blue Jade contributes to a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the typing experience. Conversely, the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute creates a more clear and resonant sound profile, emphasizing the tactile feedback of the switch. By utilizing different materials for the top and bottom housings, each switch can offer a balanced combination of sound characteristics for both key press and release.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Blue Jade and KTT Semi Mute switches will depend on personal preferences in sound and typing feel. While the Blue Jade's nylon housing creates a softer, fuller sound, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper, crisper sound profile. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, making them suitable options for users seeking a specific sound experience. Whether it be a preference for a deeper, duller sound or a sharper, more resonant sound, both switches offer distinct characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer users different typing experiences. The Blue Jade has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Semi Mute's lighter 43 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Blue Jade at 65 grams is heavier than the Semi Mute's 58 grams. The Blue Jade offers a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy force, while the Semi Mute provides a lighter touch with a medium force. For those who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Semi Mute may be the better option. In contrast, the Blue Jade is ideal for those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more robust typing experience. The actuation and bottom out forces of each switch play a significant role in determining the typing feel, making it essential for users to consider their preferences before making a choice.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance ensures that typists will get a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. This makes them both suitable options for individuals who prefer a standard travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is known for its loud and clicky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch lives up to its name by offering a muted sound experience, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. The Semi Mute's advanced dampening technology ensures that typing remains virtually silent, making it a suitable choice for late-night typing sessions or shared workspaces where noise is a concern.
When it comes to typing feel, the Blue Jade switch does not have a specific descriptor available in the provided information. However, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as having a buttery and mild feel. This indicates that the Semi Mute switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle typing sensation that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. This makes the Semi Mute switch comfortable and approachable for a wide range of users, providing a pleasant typing experience without any harsh feedback.
Overall, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Jade excels in providing a loud and clicky typing experience, the Semi Mute switch prioritizes a quiet and smooth operation. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, you should consider your priorities. If you prioritize a clicky and tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Blue Jade switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire a smooth and quiet typing experience with a lower bottom out force, then the Semi Mute switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and the environment in which you will be using your keyboard.
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