TTC Bluish White vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are pleased to offer two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches: the TTC Bluish White and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, both of which are tactile switches. If you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience, the Bluish White is the switch for you. With its snappy sound profile and a categorization of 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', and 'Low-pitched', this switch provides an enjoyable and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp typing feel, the Blueberry switch is an excellent choice. Known for its very sharp tactile bump, it offers a lower-than-average sound frequency, giving it a deeper but not "thocky" sound. With a categorization of 'Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating' and 'Stiff', the NovelKeys Blueberry switch provides a distinctive and invigorating typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The TTC Bluish White and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry have different materials for their top housing. The Bluish White utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material is especially useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as polycarbonate is translucent. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry features POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the Bluish White's polycarbonate provides a higher-pitched and clearer sound compared to the Blueberry's POM.
In terms of their bottom housing, the Bluish White relies on nylon, while the NovelKeys Blueberry uses POM. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and ability to absorb sound. On the other hand, POM in the Blueberry switch also creates a deep and muted sound. While both materials contribute to the overall sound of the switch, the softer nylon in the Bluish White is likely to provide a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the Blueberry's POM.
It's worth noting that the top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in the overall sound and feel. Pressing down on the switch will primarily showcase the qualities of the bottom housing, such as the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when letting go of a key will be more influenced by the top housing. Therefore, even though the materials differ for the top and bottom housings, both the Bluish White and the Blueberry switches offer their own unique sound profiles, with the top housing playing a more significant role in the overall experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it becomes evident that there are significant differences between the two. The TTC Bluish White has a relatively lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. Additionally, it has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a relatively light and less substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry offers a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, requiring more force to initiate keystrokes. Furthermore, it has a considerably heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing users with a more substantial and tactile typing sensation. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter touch and the ability to type for extended periods may find the TTC Bluish White to be a more suitable option. In contrast, individuals seeking a more robust and satisfying typing experience may gravitate towards the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The differences in actuation and bottom out force demonstrate that choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is 3.5mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In terms of travel distance, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch is longer than the TTC Bluish White switch. The difference may seem small, but it can have an impact on the user's experience. The 4mm travel distance of the NovelKeys Blueberry switch falls within the more traditional range, providing a decent depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the 3.5mm travel distance of the TTC Bluish White switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers or users who prioritize faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences, as some may find the shorter travel distance of the TTC Bluish White switch to be more abrupt, while others may appreciate its responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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.
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, both the TTC Bluish White and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have a low-pitched tone. However, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches also have a resonant sound profile, which gives a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. This means that the Blueberry switches have a cleaner and sharper sound compared to the Bluish White switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself, but is also influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Bluish White switches are described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle resistance and a light typing feel. They also have a more subtle tactile bump, and the keystroke can have some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, the polished finish results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches are described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff. These switches are super responsive, providing a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. They also have a textured surface that creates noticeable friction when pressed. The Blueberry switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and/or bottom-out compared to other switches.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bluish White switches have a snappy sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. They provide a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Blueberry switches have a lower-than-average sound frequency, with a clean and sharp resonant sound profile. They offer a snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff feel. While both switches offer a satisfying tactile typing experience, the choice between them will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a lower-pitched, bass-heavy sound with a smooth and gentle typing experience, the TTC Bluish White switches may be the better choice. If you prefer a lower-pitched, resonant sound with a snappy and reactive typing feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches would be more suitable.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a satisfyingly poppy typing experience, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is a great choice. It offers a snappy sound profile and a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a heavier bottom out force and a sharp tactile bump, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be more suitable. It has a lower-than-average sound frequency, a snappy and buttery feel, as well as a textured and invigorating sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.