Outemu Blue Jade vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Blue Jade, known for its clicky feedback, to the Gateron Type A, a linear switch with a unique sound signature, there are distinct differences to consider. The Blue Jade offers a tactile experience with audible feedback, perfect for those who enjoy a clicky typing experience. On the other hand, the Type A provides a smooth and consistent keystroke, making it ideal for users looking for a quieter typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and the Gateron Type A switches are both made of nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for their top and bottom housings. Both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel, as the nylon material used in their construction contributes to the overall sound profile of the switches.
While both the Blue Jade and Type A switches share the same nylon top housing material, they may differ in their bottom housing composition. The qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the bottom and top of the switches, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. The nylon bottom housing, being softer and sound-absorbent, helps in creating a more cushioned and muted typing experience compared to switches with harder plastics in the bottom housing. The top housing, on the other hand, affects the sound produced when releasing a key, adding to the overall acoustic profile of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Outemu Blue Jade and the Gateron Type A plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of the typing experience. The nylon material used in both the top and bottom housings contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more muted and rounder sound compared to switches made of harder plastics. While the top housing influences the sound when keys are released, the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel. By understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance, enthusiasts can choose the switch that best suits their preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Jade has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Type A's lighter 55 grams. Both switches share the same actuation force of 50 grams, providing a similar initial typing experience. The weight of a switch is important as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Some prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions, while others enjoy the extra push of heavier switches for a more satisfying typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Jade and Type A switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the two switches, their travel distances do not differ as they both require the same distance for activation. This means that whether you choose the Blue Jade or the Type A switch, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. Both switches provide a consistent feel when typing due to their identical travel distances, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of key press feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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 switch offers a sharp and crisp clicky sound when pressed, giving users a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch provides a more subdued sound profile, emitting a quieter and more subtle noise when activated. This difference in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience, as some prefer the loud and clicky sound of the Blue Jade for tactile feedback, while others may find the quieter sound of the Type A more suitable for a quieter work environment.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Blue Jade switch provides a tactile and responsive typing experience, with a noticeable bump at the actuation point that allows for precise typing. Conversely, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump, providing a more uniform typing experience for those who prefer a linear switch. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, as some may prefer the tactile feedback of the Blue Jade, while others may opt for the consistent feel of the Type A.
Taking all available information into consideration, it is evident that the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Jade delivers a sharp and tactile typing experience with its loud clicky sound, the Type A provides a smoother and more subdued typing experience with a quieter sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs in the mechanical keyboard community. By selecting the switch that aligns with your typing style, you can ensure a more satisfying and enjoyable typing experience overall.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the amount of force you prefer for typing. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Blue Jade might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, the Type A switch could be more suitable. Additionally, think about the sound profile you prefer – whether you enjoy a more neutral sound or a more subdued sound when typing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in typing experience and sound.
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