Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry 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 that stand out are the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, known for its sharp tactile bump, and the Gateron Type S, praised for its weightier keystrokes and pleasing sound signature. The Blueberry switches offer a snappy and textured typing experience with a lower-than-average sound frequency, making it ideal for those who enjoy a sharp tactile feel. On the other hand, the Type S provides a neutral and subdued typing experience with a 65g bottom-out weight, appealing to users who prefer a weightier keystroke and a balanced sound profile. 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and Gateron Type S switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Blueberry features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Type S's nylon top housing. While the nylon top housing of the Type S offers a fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, the POM top housing of the Blueberry provides a different, yet equally satisfying typing experience. Both switches bring a level of uniqueness to the table, but the POM top housing of the Blueberry offers a sound that is distinct from the fuller sound of the Type S.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and Gateron Type S switches feature POM and nylon materials, respectively. The POM bottom housing of the Blueberry contributes to the deep and muted sound profile of the switch, while the softer nylon bottom housing of the Type S enhances its fuller sound. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles. Whether it's the bottom-out sound and feel influenced by the bottom housing or the sound when releasing a key impacted by the top housing, each switch provides a distinct tactile experience for the user.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and Gateron Type S switches contribute to their individual sound profiles and tactile feedback. While the Blueberry's POM top and bottom housings offer a pleasing deep and muted sound, the Type S's nylon top and bottom housings produce a fuller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches provide a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. Whether you prefer the deeper sound of the Blueberry or the fuller sound of the Type S, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Blueberry has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams compared to the Type S's 65 grams, making the Blueberry switch heavier overall. However, they both share the same actuation force of 55 grams, meaning that they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. This makes them both suitable for those who prefer a moderate actuation force. When considering weight, lighter switches like the Type S may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while heavier switches like the Blueberry may be chosen for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom will be the same. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and actuation depth when using either switch. Both switches offer a consistent and precise typing experience due to their identical travel distances.
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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a low-pitched and resonant typing experience, providing a deeper yet clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch presents a neutral and subdued sound, leaning towards a more balanced and dampened acoustic experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Blueberry switches leaning towards a bass-heavy tone and the Type S switches offering a more versatile and subtle sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches are described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff, providing a lively and tactile typing experience with noticeable friction and pronounced feedback. On the contrary, information regarding the feel of the Gateron Type S switches is unavailable. However, based on the lack of descriptors provided, it can be inferred that the Type S linear switches may offer a smoother and possibly lighter typing experience compared to the textured and more firm feel of the Blueberry switches.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switches and the Gateron Type S linear switches offer distinct sound profiles and potentially differing typing feels. While the Blueberry switches excel in providing a sharp and tactile typing experience with a lower-pitched sound, the Type S switches aim to deliver a balanced and neutral sound with an unknown feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feedback, both switches have unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a sharp typing feel and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, the Gateron Type S linear switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches should be based on whether you prioritize a sharp tactile bump and lower sound frequency or a weightier keystroke and balanced sound signature. Consider your typing style and sound preference when choosing between the NovelKeys Blueberry and Gateron Type S switches.
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