Kailh Berry vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry offer two distinct typing experiences. The Berry switch is best known for its linear design, providing users with a hefty and springy feel while typing. The switch also features a chalk-like texture and produces a fairly deep sound profile, making it great for those who prefer a textured and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a tactile bump that is incredibly sharp, providing a satisfying typing feel for enthusiasts. The switch has a lower-than-average sound frequency, deeper than average but not "thocky." It is characterized by its snappy, buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, invigorating, and stiff qualities. Both switches have their own unique features that can cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, there are notable differences in the materials used. The Berry features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Blueberry utilizes a POM top housing. The polycarbonate housing of the Berry creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, resulting in a higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the POM housing of the Blueberry produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. This distinction in sound characteristics can greatly impact the typing experience and the overall feel of the switch.
Furthermore, the bottom housing materials also differ between the two switches. The Berry incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Blueberry features a POM bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottoms. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry contributes to its deeper and more muted sound profile.
Despite these differences, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. Therefore, when pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. In this regard, both the Kailh Berry and the NovelKeys Blueberry can offer unique and satisfying typing experiences, albeit with different sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, we can see clear differences. Firstly, the actuation force of the Berry switch is unknown, whereas the Blueberry switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the Blueberry switch will require a slightly lighter touch to register a keystroke compared to the Berry switch. On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Berry switch has a medium-heavy force of 70 grams, whereas the Blueberry switch has a heavier force of 80 grams. This indicates that the Blueberry switch will provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience as it requires a stronger push to fully activate the key. It is worth considering personal preferences when choosing between these switches. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Blueberry switch, while individuals seeking a heavier, more pronounced keystroke may find the Berry switch to be a better fit. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and can be chosen accordingly based on personal preferences and specific usage scenarios.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is 4 mm. The Berry has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blueberry. The most traditional travel distance for switches is 4.0 mm, while 3.0 mm is considered the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become prevalent, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you value quick and responsive typing or gaming experiences, the Berry's shorter travel distance may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper keypress and a more substantial feel, the Blueberry's longer travel distance might be more appealing. It ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, but you can expect similar results in terms of feeling the distance traveled from top to bottom when using either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its hefty typing experience and springy type feel. When typing on the Berry switch, there is a chalk-like texture that adds to the overall tactile feedback. In terms of sound, the Berry switch has a fairly deep sound profile. It is described as low-pitched and bassy, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses.
On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is best known for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing feel for those who enjoy a sharper feedback. The sound profile of the Blueberry switch is lower than average, but not "thocky." It is also described as low-pitched and resonant, offering a clean and sharp auditory experience.
Comparing the two switches, both the Berry and Blueberry switches share a low-pitched sound profile. However, the Berry switch has a bassier and mellow tone, while the Blueberry switch offers a cleaner and sharp sound. This means that both switches will result in a lower frequency sound, but with slightly different characteristics.
In terms of feel, the Berry switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. This might be preferred by some users, but not everyone enjoys this type of feedback. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch is described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff. It offers a super responsive and alive typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke. The Blueberry switch also provides pronounced feedback and requires a higher amount of force to actuate and/or bottom-out.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. While the Berry switch offers a springy and chalk-like texture with a deep and bassy sound, the Blueberry switch provides a sharp tactile bump, lower than average sound frequency, and a variety of other qualities like snappiness and invigorating feedback. Depending on individual preferences, these switches can offer unique typing experiences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture, the Berry switch is a great option for you. It offers a deep sound profile, characterized by a low-pitched and bassy tone.
On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch would be a better choice. It provides a clean and sharp sound profile with a lower-pitched tone. Additionally, it offers other desirable features such as a snappy and buttery feel, as well as an invigorating typing sensation.
So, if you value a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams and a sharp tactile bump, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 70 grams and a linear typing experience, the Kailh Berry switch is a great option.
In the end, it is important to consider your preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force when making a decision between these two switches. Consider trying them out beforehand if possible, as personal experience can often be the best indicator of which switch suits you the most.
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