Outemu Blue vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Blue Jade are two popular choices for those who enjoy a clicky typing experience. The Outemu Blue switch is known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound, providing typists with a distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switch offers a similar clicky feel but with a heavier actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Both switches are categorized as clicky switches, making them suitable for those who enjoy the audible feedback while typing. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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 Outemu Blue and Outemu Blue Jade switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharp, crisp sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. However, the Blue Jade stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Blue's nylon top housing. This means that when typing on the Blue Jade switch, users will experience a unique combination of sharpness and depth in sound profile.
When it comes to sound profile, the Outemu Blue Jade switch is likely to offer a more well-rounded experience compared to the Outemu Blue. The combination of the sharper sound from the polycarbonate top housing and the deeper sound from the nylon bottom housing creates a dynamic typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in both switches allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the typing experience.
Ultimately, while both the Outemu Blue and Outemu Blue Jade switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound depth. The Blue Jade's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller sound profile, while the Blue's nylon bottom housing is likely to provide a similar experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound or a deeper sound, both switches have distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch both share a similar actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key press. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Jade switch is heavier at 65 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Blue switch. This means that the Blue Jade switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a heavier switch. In contrast, the Blue switch may be better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance is the same for both switches, meaning that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of how far they need to press down on the keys. This consistency ensures that whether you choose the Outemu Blue clicky switch or the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, you will get comparable results in terms of travel distance when typing. Despite any other differences between the two switches, the travel distance remains consistent, providing a familiar experience for users who are accustomed to either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Blue and Blue Jade.
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 clicky switch is known for its loud clicky sound, which is often described as satisfying and reminiscent of old-school typewriters. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is also known for its clicky sound but with a slightly higher pitch compared to the regular Blue switch. This difference in pitch can provide a unique auditory experience for those who enjoy clicky switches.
Regarding feel, the Outemu Blue switch offers a tactile bump and a light actuation force, making it easy to type on for extended periods without causing fatigue. In comparison, the Outemu Blue Jade switch provides a similar tactile bump but with a slightly heavier actuation force, which can be preferred by users who like a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the slight differences in actuation force may influence the overall feel for the user.
In conclusion, while both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch offer a similar clicky sound and tactile bump, the Blue Jade switch provides a slightly higher pitched sound and a heavier actuation force compared to the regular Blue switch. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with a clicky feedback that is sure to elevate your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is important to consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a traditional clicky sound, the Outemu Blue switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a crisper clicky sound, the Outemu Blue Jade switch may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
