Dareu Holly vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry

Overview

The Dareu Holly and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry are both tactile mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Holly switch stands out with its medium 50g actuation force and a sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing feel for users. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is known for its sharp tactile bump, appealing to those who enjoy a sharp typing sensation. While the Holly switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', and 'Neutral', the Blueberry switch boasts characteristics such as 'Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Stiff'. When considering which switch to choose, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Dareu Holly Tactile

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer different sound profiles due to their composition. The Holly features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the Blueberry has a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches excel in providing unique and appealing sound experiences, with the Holly leaning towards a clearer sound and the Blueberry offering a more subdued tone.

In terms of bottom housing, the Holly utilizes nylon, known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic material absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Blueberry also incorporates POM for its bottom housing, contributing to the switch's deep and muted sound signature. Both nylon and POM materials contribute to creating distinct sound profiles, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who prioritize sound quality in their mechanical keyboards.

When considering the overall sound experience of these switches, the combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role. The bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their different materials, both the Dareu Holly and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to various preferences, making them stand out options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a customized typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Holly has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Blueberry has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Holly's force is unknown, but the Blueberry has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches caters to different preferences. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Holly for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Blueberry for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance may result in a similar typing experience for users of both switches, as the keypress will feel consistent regardless of which one is used. Overall, the travel distance of these switches may not be a factor that significantly differentiates them, as they offer the same tactile feedback and travel distance to users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Dareu Holly switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a distinctive typing experience. The sharp and snappy sound produced by the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is lower in frequency and not as "thocky" as some other switches, providing a different auditory experience. Both switches cater to users who appreciate a tactile feel while typing, with the Holly being more versatile in its sound profile and the Blueberry offering a cleaner and sharper resonance.

In terms of feel, unfortunately, there is no specific information available for the Dareu Holly switch. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff. These qualities indicate that the Blueberry switch provides a responsive and lively typing experience with noticeable feedback and a variety of tactile sensations. Without specific information on the Holly switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.

Overall, both the Dareu Holly and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Holly switch provides a balanced sound profile with chirpy and clacky elements, while the Blueberry switch offers a sharper tactile bump and a lower frequency sound. Depending on whether you prefer a more versatile sound profile or a cleaner resonance, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different boards with varying keycap sets will allow you to better understand and appreciate the nuanced differences in sound and feel.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Holly tactile switch or the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium actuation force with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Dareu Holly switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency with a heavier bottom out force, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch could be the ideal choice. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what suits your typing needs best.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Holly Tactile

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more