Outemu Blue Jade vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Blue Jade, a clicky switch, and the Gateron Type S, a linear switch. The Outemu Blue Jade switch is best known for its satisfying click sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S is renowned for its smooth and quiet operation, providing a more understated typing feel. While the Blue Jade switch is perfect for those who prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Type S switch is ideal for users who prefer a more subtle and smooth keystroke. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and the Gateron Type S switches are both made of nylon, which is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches that use nylon housing. Both switches offer a duller and rounder sound due to the qualities of the nylon material. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either the Outemu Blue Jade or the Gateron Type S switches.
In terms of the top housing of the switches, the nylon material used in both the Blue Jade and Type S switches contributes to the overall sound profile. The softer nature of nylon helps in absorbing sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded typing experience. The impact of the top housing is more noticeable when releasing a key, as it influences the sound produced during key press release. Both switches offer a similar sound profile due to the use of nylon in the top housing, providing a consistent typing experience for users.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. With nylon being the material for the bottom housing of both the Blue Jade and Type S switches, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out keys. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a softer and more cushioned typing experience, resulting in a more comfortable typing feel. Overall, both switches showcase the benefits of nylon housing in providing a pleasant typing experience, whether it be in the top or bottom housing of the switches.
Weight
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both have a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a similar typing experience in terms of the pressure needed to fully press the key. However, the Blue Jade has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Type S's 55 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Blue Jade may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience or who type for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Type S may provide a more tactile and substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that users will experience a similar tactile feedback and keypress feel when using either switch. The travel distance of 4mm for both switches indicates that they both provide a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel. Users can expect a smooth and responsive keystroke with both the Blue Jade and Type S switches, making them suitable options for those who prefer a standard key travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring that users will get consistent results with either option.
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 S 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 is known for its crisp and satisfying clicky sound, providing a tactile and audible feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments. While the Blue Jade may be preferred by those who enjoy a louder and more tactile typing experience, the Type S appeals to users looking for a quieter and more understated typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Jade switch is known for its tactile bump and resistance, providing a satisfying feedback when typing. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Type S linear switch is not specified in the provided information. However, it can be inferred that the Type S offers a smooth and consistent keystroke experience, typical of linear switches.
Overall, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Blue Jade is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile and clicky typing experience, while the Gateron Type S appeals to users seeking a quieter and smoother keystroke. Depending on your personal preferences and typing habits, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit in different ways. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches on various keyboard setups will allow for a more informed decision on which switch type suits your needs best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you enjoy a clicky switch with a satisfying tactile feedback and a loud sound profile, the Outemu Blue Jade may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a weightier keystroke and a more subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type S could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound.
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