TTC Flame Red vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the TTC Flame Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The Flame Red is best known for its dazzling light diffuser, making it the ideal choice for those seeking a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness with a distinct and clacky sound profile. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Flame Reds offer a unique visual experience coupled with a satisfying tactile feel. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches are renowned for their sharp tactile bump, appealing to those who prefer a pronounced typing sensation. When typing on these switches, expect a lower-than-average sound frequency that is slightly deeper than average but not overly "thocky." Classified as 'Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating', the Blueberry switches offer a highly satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have some key similarities and differences. Both switches utilize classic switch housing materials, with the Flame Red featuring a nylon top housing and bottom housing, while the Blueberry incorporates a POM top housing and bottom housing.
In terms of sound profile, the Flame Red with its nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch with its POM housing offers a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This indicates that while both switches deliver a deep sound, the Flame Red may have a slightly richer and more resonant tone due to the sound absorption properties of nylon.
When comparing the feel of the switches, the bottom housing plays a significant role. The nylon bottom housing of the Flame Red adds to the deeper sound profile and also influences the tactile feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry offers a unique and potentially smoother tactile experience. Meanwhile, the impact of the top housing becomes more prominent when releasing a key, affecting the sound produced. Although the Flame Red may provide a fuller sound when letting go of a key, the POM top housing of the Blueberry can add its own distinct and muted resonance.
In summary, while the TTC Flame Red and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches share some similarities in terms of delivering a deep sound profile, they differ in the specific characteristics of their housing materials. The nylon housing of the Flame Red provides a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the POM housing of the Blueberry creates a unique and relatively more muted sound. The bottom housing influences the tactile feel when pressing down on keys, with the nylon bottom housing of the Flame Red potentially offering a richer experience and the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry potentially providing a smoother feel. The impact of the top housing becomes more noticeable when releasing keys, with the Flame Red potentially producing a fuller sound and the Blueberry offering a distinct and muted resonance.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Flame Red possesses a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke with a slight touch. In contrast, the Blueberry requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial push feel during typing.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Flame Red linear switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force of 54 grams. This means that when pressing the key all the way down, there is a bit more resistance compared to its actuation force. On the other hand, the Blueberry tactile switch has a significantly higher bottom out force of 80 grams. This heavier force ensures a more robust and pronounced typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Flame Red switch due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This can be beneficial for those who engage in long typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Conversely, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Blueberry switch, as its higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience.
To summarize, the TTC Flame Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch. While the Flame Red provides a medium-light typing experience, the Blueberry offers a heavier and more pronounced feel. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier force, both options cater to specific preferences, resulting in a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent distance of 4 mm of travel. Both switches offer a satisfying amount of key travel, allowing for comfortable typing or gaming experiences. If you are looking for a keyboard switch with a specific travel distance, either the Flame Red or the Blueberry will provide you with similar results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
The Flame Red switch is known for its weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile when typing. The visuals of the switch are also noteworthy, as it has a dazzling light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch provides a sharp tactile bump, resulting in a sharp typing feel. The sound produced by the Blueberry switch is lower than average in frequency, with a deep but not "thocky" tone.
In terms of sound, the Flame Red switch can be considered neutral, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a sound profile suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is low-pitched, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone. It also has a resonant sound profile, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Flame Red switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. Being categorized as mild means it provides a gentle typing sensation, while polished refers to its smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The NovelKeys Blueberry switch, on the other hand, is snappy and buttery, offering a super responsive and fluid keystroke experience. It is also worth noting that the Blueberry switch can be either textured or invigorating, depending on user preference.
Taking all the available information into account, the Flame Red and NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the Flame Red switch provides weighty smoothness and a clacky sound, the Blueberry switch offers a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency. Both switches have their unique advantages and can cater to different preferences. If a similar result is desired, one can expect a smooth and polished typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize visual aesthetics and enjoy a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, then the Flame Red switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches are perfect for those who prefer backlit or RGB keyboards due to their dazzling light diffuser. On the other hand, if you value a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch would be the better option. These switches offer a sharp typing feel and a slightly deeper sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between the Flame Red and Blueberry switches will come down to your preferences in terms of visuals, sound, and feel.
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