Outemu Blue Jade vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Outemu Blue Jade and the TTC Silent Red. The Outemu Blue Jade is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red is a linear switch, focusing on delivering a quiet and smooth typing experience. The Blue Jade switch provides a satisfying tactile response for those who enjoy the audible click, while the Silent Red switch offers a smooth and seamless typing feel, making it ideal for office or shared living spaces where noise may be an issue. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 TTC Silent Red switches both play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switch. The Blue Jade features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of the plastic absorbing more sound. In contrast, the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a more resonant sound. While both materials contribute to a different sound experience, they both have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Blue Jade and Silent Red switches utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, and this is reflected in the sound and feel of both switches when typing. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the switches may still offer slightly different typing experiences due to the interplay between the bottom and top housing materials. This demonstrates how even small variations in housing materials can impact the overall sound profile and typing feel of a switch.
Overall, the choice between the Blue Jade and Silent Red switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Blue Jade's nylon top and bottom housing create a duller and rounder sound, while the Silent Red's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing offer a sharper and clearer sound. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, showcasing how the selection of housing materials can greatly influence the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches offer distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts to explore.
Weight
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In comparison, the TTC Silent Red linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. Both switches have a similar weight with the Silent Red being slightly lighter in terms of actuation force. When it comes to preference, individuals who enjoy a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Red switch, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Blue Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and the level of tactile feedback desired.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances compared to traditional switches. Gamers who prioritize speed and quick response times may lean towards the TTC Silent Red due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more pronounced keypress and a sense of depth may find the Outemu Blue Jade more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is known for producing a loud and crisp click with each keystroke, making it quite audible and potentially disruptive in quiet environments. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is praised for its muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience that is ideal for office settings or shared living spaces where noise is a concern. While the Blue Jade provides a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Silent Red ensures a more subtle and understated typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Jade switch is noted for its tactile and clicky feedback, providing a satisfying sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience from top to bottom. Additionally, the Silent Red switch features a padded bottom-out feel, adding a layer of comfort to extended typing sessions. While the Blue Jade offers a more tactile response, the Silent Red focuses on delivering a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Considering both switches, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is ideal for users who enjoy a loud and tactile typing experience, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch is perfect for those seeking a quieter and smoother typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound levels and typing feel. If you are looking for a more pronounced typing experience, the Blue Jade is the way to go, whereas if you prefer a quieter and more refined typing feel, the Silent Red is the better option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're someone who enjoys the satisfying clicky feedback of a mechanical keyboard and doesn't mind a bit of noise, the Outemu Blue Jade switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience, especially in a shared environment like an office or living space, the TTC Silent Red switches would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for noise level and typing feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities and it's important to choose the one that aligns with your individual needs and preferences.
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