TTC Gold Silver vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver 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 are the TTC Gold Silver and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The TTC Gold Silver is a linear switch known for its rapid responsiveness and precise bottom-out with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch that offers a sharp tactile bump for a satisfying typing experience. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Blueberry switch stands out for its sharp typing feel and lower-than-average sound frequency. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer unique characteristics that differentiate them in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is especially suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, providing a different typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Gold Silver leaning towards a crisper sound, while the Blueberry offers a more subdued tone.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Gold Silver uses a nylon housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characterized by a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry also employs POM for its bottom housing, contributing to the same deep and muted sound profile that complements the POM top housing. Despite the different materials used for the bottom housing, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound, with the nylon and POM materials absorbing sound differently to achieve the desired sound profile.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in the TTC Gold Silver and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches creates a unique typing experience for users. While the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing provides a crisper sound profile, the Blueberry's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted tone. In terms of the bottom housing, both switches produce a similar deep and full sound profile, thanks to the nylon and POM materials used. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying sound and feel for typists, catering to a variety of preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is evident that the Gold Silver requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Blueberry's 55 grams. This means that the Gold Silver switch may feel more responsive and easier to activate with a lighter touch. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Silver is unknown, while the Blueberry has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This indicates that the Blueberry switch may provide a more substantial typing experience, requiring a firmer press to fully activate the key. So, for those who prefer a lighter touch and quicker actuation, the Gold Silver may be the preferred choice, while those who enjoy a heavier, more tactile feel may lean towards the Blueberry. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Gold Silver switch offers a slightly quicker key press compared to the Blueberry switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Gold Silver switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press with greater depth may lean towards the Blueberry switch. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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, the TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its deep and satisfying "thocky" sound profile, giving off a rich and resonant tone that provides a sense of satisfaction with each keystroke. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a lower-pitched and clean sound profile, creating a unique auditory experience that is immersive and sharp. Both switches provide distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Gold Silver leaning towards a deeper tone and the Blueberry offering a mellow yet resonant sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Silver switch is recognized for its polished and silky smooth typing experience, offering reduced friction and a refined finish that enhances the overall fluidity of keystrokes. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is described as snappy and buttery, providing a responsive and uniform typing sensation that feels lively and effortless. Additionally, the Blueberry switch offers an invigorating feedback with a textured feel, creating a tactile experience that is firm and reactive. Both switches deliver distinct tactile qualities, with the Gold Silver focusing on a gentle typing feel and the Blueberry offering a more pronounced and invigorating sensation.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in providing a swift and precise typing experience with a deep and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a sharp and invigorating tactile bump with a lower-pitched and immersive sound signature. Depending on whether you prefer a smoother and polished typing feel with deep sound resonance, or a snappy and textured tactile feedback with a buttery typing experience, both switches cater to different preferences and deliver unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Silver linear switch or the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, smooth key presses, and a neutral sound profile, the Gold Silver switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump, snappy feedback, and a lower-pitched sound profile, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch could be the more suitable choice. Consider the key characteristics and qualities of each switch to determine which aligns best with your typing preferences and needs. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing experience.
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