Outemu Blue Jade vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly enhance your typing experience, and two notable options are the Outemu Blue Jade and Wuque Studio WS Pearl. The Blue Jade is a clicky switch, favored by typists who appreciate tactile feedback and an auditory confirmation with each keystroke, making it ideal for those who thrive on a more interactive typing experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl is a linear switch, renowned for its smooth operation due to the incorporation of ball-bearings that minimize friction during use. This results in a keystroke that feels effortlessly smooth, catering to users who prefer a quieter, more fluid typing experience. While the clicky feedback of the Blue Jade can energize long typing sessions, the serene glide of the WS Pearl promotes an uninterrupted workflow. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Blue Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a similar acoustic profile and tactile experience. Since nylon is a classic switch housing material, the composition of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon contributes to a sound that is rounder and less harsh, as it absorbs vibrations more effectively than harder plastics. This shared material choice indicates that users can expect a muted and satisfying sound when using either switch, with an emphasis on a warm typing experience that resonates well in both instances.
While both the Blue Jade and WS Pearl share the same housings, the interplay between them gives rise to nuanced performance characteristics. The bottom housing notably has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed down, while the top housing contributes more significantly to the sound produced upon releasing the key. By using nylon for both housings, both switches are designed to maintain a consistent sound quality throughout the typing process; the unique properties of the nylon material will ensure an overall harmonious acoustic experience, resulting in a cohesive blend of tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction.
Despite the shared material composition, subtle differences may arise in the tuning or manufacturing of each switch that could affect performance. However, because both switches leverage nylon's inherent qualities, users should anticipate a generally comparable experience when typing on the Outemu Blue Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl. From the deep and rich sound profile to the comfortable tactility, the nylon materials utilized in both switches create an overall cohesive typing experience, allowing users to enjoy the intricate benefits of nylon as a classic switch housing material across different keyboard setups.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Jade has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it the heavier option. In contrast, the WS Pearl features a lighter actuation force at 30 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. This disparity means that users who favor a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may prefer the WS Pearl, as it requires less force to actuate a keystroke, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel might opt for the Blue Jade. Overall, the WS Pearl offers a lighter feel and a lower bottom out force, while the Blue Jade presents a more robust tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there is a notable difference that could influence user preference. The Blue Jade features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the WS Pearl has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This 0.5 mm difference highlights the disparity between these two switches; for users who prioritize responsiveness and quick actuation times such as gamers, the WS Pearl may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, those who prefer a more pronounced key press with a deeper feel might favor the Blue Jade for its traditional 4 mm travel. Ultimately, individuals seeking a satisfying typing experience will choose based on their preference for depth versus responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00.
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 has an acoustic profile that is crisp and pronounced, typical of clicky switches, which can provide a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. This sound adds an engaging layer to the typing experience, making it very rewarding for touch typists and gamers alike. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch presents a medium-high pitched sound signature that is markedly quieter than traditional clicky switches. Although it lacks the distinct click of the Blue Jade, the smoothness of the WS Pearl's keystrokes allows for a more subdued yet pleasant auditory feedback, which can make for a more focused typing environment.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Jade switch is characterized by its noticeable tactile bump accompanied by a click that engages both visually and physically while typing. This tactile feedback can enhance typing speed and accuracy for those who appreciate a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the WS Pearl switch takes an entirely different approach by utilizing ball-bearings to minimize friction during keystrokes. As a result, the feel is remarkably smooth and linear, providing a unique sensation that can be quite liberating for users who favor a gliding motion over tactile feedback. The enhanced smoothness of the WS Pearl can lead to quicker typing bursts, as there’s less resistance throughout the keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Blue Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences suited for different preferences in mechanical keyboards. The Blue Jade offers a clicky and engaging sound with a tactile feel, ideal for those who want an interactive typing experience, whereas the WS Pearl prioritizes smoothness in both sound and feel, making it a fantastic choice for users who prefer a quieter and more fluid typing motion. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you value the tactile feedback and clicky sound of the Blue Jade or the seamless, frictionless experience of the WS Pearl.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, it’s essential to consider your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a tactile and audible feedback experience, the Blue Jade’s medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams will deliver that satisfying click with each key press. This makes it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy the sound and feel of a clicky switch and may find that it enhances their typing experience, particularly in a quiet environment. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother typing experience, the WS Pearl's innovative ball-bearing mechanism and lighter 58-gram bottom out force provide a unique, buttery feel that can reduce fatigue during long sessions, ideal for both gaming and extensive typing tasks. Additionally, the WS Pearl’s medium-high pitched sound signature is less intrusive, making it a more versatile option if you’re in shared spaces or prefer a quieter environment. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you desire the distinct, tactile feedback of the Blue Jade or the exceptional smoothness and subtler sound profile of the WS Pearl.
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