Outemu Blue Jade vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the distinct characteristics and benefits of various options. The Outemu Blue Jade is a clicky switch that appeals to typists who enjoy auditory feedback and a tactile response, making each keystroke feel satisfying and precise. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a robust and engaging typing experience, especially when typing long documents or coding. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) features a linear design characterized by smooth keystrokes and minimal resistance, thanks to its Ly stems. This switch caters to gamers and fast typists who prefer speed and fluidity without the distraction of click sounds, allowing for more discreet operation during intense gaming sessions or office environments. While both switches have their unique strengths—one providing typist satisfaction through auditory cues and the other prioritizing the smoothness of each press—they ultimately serve different user preferences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Blue Jade Clicky

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$3.10 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), we see a distinct difference in their top housing compositions which influences the switches' sound profiles. The Outemu Blue Jade features a nylon top housing, known for its capacity to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. In comparison, the Tomcat (Heavy) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This difference in materials fundamentally alters the auditory experience of each switch. While the nylon top of the Blue Jade tends to absorb sound, creating a more subdued acoustic signature, the Tomcat's polycarbonate construction allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, making it favorable for users who prefer a crisper audio response.

Interestingly, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which provides a layer of consistency in their sound profiles. The bottom housing's soft nylon material in both switches contributes to the deeper and fuller sound that users experience when pressing down on the keys. The shared use of nylon here results in a similar dampening effect, minimizing any harsh sounds that may arise from key bottoming out. Therefore, regardless of the differing top housings, users can expect a cohesive auditory experience when engaging with the switches' deeper sounds, as the bottom housing in both the Blue Jade and Tomcat (Heavy) remains consistent.

Moreover, the separation of materials between the top and bottom housings indicates how each component’s unique attributes affect the switch's overall performance. The nylon bottom housing is primarily responsible for the subdued sound during key presses, while the top housing influences the sound generated upon key release. In essence, although the Outemu Blue Jade and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) differ in their top housing materials, both benefit from the familiar nylon bottom, resulting in a nuanced combination of sound profiles. Consequently, users can appreciate both switches' unique auditory experiences while understanding how each contributes to the overall feel and sound of the keyboard.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces while their bottom out forces are quite close. The Blue Jade requires an actuation force of 50 grams, making it lighter than the Tomcat's 55 grams, which can contribute to a more comfortable typing experience for those who prefer less pressure over prolonged use. However, the bottom out forces are very similar, with the Blue Jade at 65 grams and the Tomcat slightly lighter at 64 grams. This means that while the Blue Jade offers a softer initial actuation, both switches will feel quite similar when fully pressed down. Users seeking a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Blue Jade, whereas those who appreciate a firmer feedback might prefer the Tomcat (Heavy). Overall, if you aim for a well-balanced typing experience with a slight heavier touch, the Tomcat switch might be the better option, while the Blue Jade suits those looking for a less demanding actuation feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the differences are quite noticeable. The Outemu Blue Jade has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, which can provide a more satisfying typing experience with a pronounced feedback for users who enjoy a hearty depth in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter and aligns with the growing preference among gamers for quicker response times, fostering a more immediate interaction with each key press. If you're inclined towards a more responsive feel, the Bsun Tomcat may be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, while those who favor a deeper actuation may prefer the Outemu Blue Jade. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding travel distance and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Blue Jade switch is characterized by a resonant click, which offers a pronounced auditory feedback that can be quite satisfying for typists who enjoy an audible cue with each keystroke. This clicky nature creates an engaging sound profile that can invigorate the typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is known for its smooth operation, producing a quieter sound overall that lacks the clicky feedback of its counterpart. While the Tomcat switch may not provide the same level of auditory excitement, this makes it ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority, contributing to a more subdued yet pleasant typing sound.

When considering feel, the Outemu Blue Jade switch tends to offer a tactile experience that can be quite engaging, thanks to its click mechanism. Users often appreciate the deliberate feedback that each keystroke provides, which can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch stands out for its exceptionally smooth operation, featuring Ly stems that allow for fluid movement without any tactile bump. This linear feel is perfect for those who prefer a softer keystroke without interruption, allowing for quicker typing and gaming responses without the distraction of clicks or bumps.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Blue Jade and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches cater to different preferences, both present distinct advantages. The Blue Jade is suitable for users who desire auditory feedback and a tactile feel, while the Tomcat (Heavy) appeals to those who prioritize smoothness and quieter typing experiences. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you lean towards the clicky, engaging nature of the Blue Jade or the whisper-quiet, silky performance of the Tomcat. Each switch offers a unique experience, ensuring that you'll find the right fit for your typing style and environment.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and intended use cases. If you enjoy auditory feedback and the tactile sensation of a click, the Blue Jade is your ideal match, making it perfect for typists who revel in the satisfying sound and feel of each keystroke. On the other hand, if you're seeking a smoother and more uninterrupted typing experience with less noise, the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is the better option, especially if you require a switch that enhances your speed and accuracy without the distraction of sound. Both switches exhibit a similar bottom-out force, making them suitable for users who are comfortable with a medium-heavy resistance. Thus, consider your environment and preferences: choose the Blue Jade for an engaging and nostalgic typing experience, or the Tomcat (Heavy) for a sleek and quiet operation that supports fast-paced work. Each switch has its strengths, and aligning those with your priorities will guide you toward the right choice for your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Blue Jade Clicky

$3.10 per 10

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Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more