TTC Honey vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Honey and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry offer two distinct typing experiences. The Honey is best known for its smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a deep and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the Blueberry switches boast a sharp tactile bump, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced typing sensation. While the Honey switches are categorized as subdued, creamy, and frictionless, the Blueberry switches are described as snappy, buttery, and low-pitched. Both switches have their unique advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Honey Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$9.99

$6.78 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have distinct characteristics that result in different sound profiles. The Honey's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Its translucency also makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. In contrast, the Blueberry's POM top housing produces a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. Therefore, those seeking a switch with a more vibrant and clear sound may prefer the Honey, while those who prefer a deeper and more subtle sound may lean towards the Blueberry.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize different materials that also impact the overall sound profile. The Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the switch's sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This housing material has a stiffness that enhances clarity and resonance in the sound profile. On the other hand, the Blueberry features a POM bottom housing that further enhances its deeper and more muted sound profile. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, users who prioritize the tactile experience and the sound when fully pressing down a key may appreciate the qualities of the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing.

It is important to note that the housing materials of the TTC Honey and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry provide distinct sound profiles, with the Honey having a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top and bottom housings. In contrast, the Blueberry's POM top and bottom housings create a deeper and relatively more muted sound. However, since both switches have polycarbonate and POM housings, respectively, in their top and bottom sections, the overall sound experience may still reflect similarities in terms of the materials used. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound characteristics and aesthetic considerations such as the use of RGB lighting.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, there are notable differences in both the actuation force and bottom out force. The Honey switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, making it lighter than its counterpart. This lighter actuation force allows for quicker keystrokes, making it ideal for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams, providing a stronger push feel. This heavier actuation force is preferred by individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience and tactile feedback.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Honey switch has a force of 50 grams, while the Blueberry switch requires an even higher force of 80 grams. This significant difference in bottom out force means that keystrokes on the Blueberry switch will require a greater amount of pressure to fully depress the key. Consequently, this may result in a slower typing speed for some users or may lead to finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions.

Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time may opt for the Honey switch due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This makes it well-suited for those who use their keyboards extensively at work or for long gaming sessions. Alternatively, those who seek a more robust and substantial typing feel will find the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Blueberry switch more suitable.

In summary, while the Honey linear switch provides a lighter and more responsive typing experience with its lower actuation and bottom out forces, the Blueberry tactile switch offers a heavier and more substantial typing feel. The choice ultimately depends on individual preference and the desired typing experience; those seeking speed and lightness may choose the Honey switch, while users who prioritize a stronger tactile feedback and push feel may opt for the Blueberry switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is clear that the Honey has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Blueberry has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Honey being on the shallower end and the Blueberry being closer to the more common 4.0 mm mark. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and specific use cases. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Honey an appealing option. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial depth in their key presses may prefer the longer travel distance offered by the Blueberry. Regardless of the choice made, both switches will provide a tactile sensation and allow users to feel the distance traveled when pressing down on a key.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Honey linear switch offers a smooth and creamy typing experience, resulting in a deep and pleasant sound profile. This switch produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a lower-than-average sound frequency, with a deep but not "thocky" tone. The Blueberry switch provides a clean and sharp sound profile, offering an immersive auditory experience. The sound of both switches is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard used and the keycaps chosen, but overall, the Honey switch offers a more subdued sound, while the Blueberry switch has a lower-pitched and resonant sound.

In terms of feel, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience. This switch offers a smooth and buttery sensation, similar to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The Honey switch provides a seamless and effortless typing feel, thanks to the applied lubricant at the factory and specific materials used. It also has a subtle and polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a snappy and invigorating typing experience. It has a sharp tactile bump, giving it a responsive and reactive feel. While some users may prefer the noticeable friction and textured feel of the Blueberry switch, others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. Overall, the Honey switch offers a creamy, frictionless, and polished feel, while the Blueberry switch provides a snappy and invigorating typing sensation.

Considering the available information, the TTC Honey linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Honey switch provides a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile. It offers a seamless and effortless feel, thanks to its lubricant application and frictionless properties. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch offers a sharp tactile bump and a lower-pitched sound frequency. It provides a snappy and textured feel for those who prefer pronounced feedback and immersive typing sensations. While these switches have different characteristics, both can deliver satisfying results depending on individual preferences. If you enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Honey switch will be a suitable choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump and invigorating feel, the Blueberry switch will provide similar results.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a lighter typing experience with smooth and creamy feel, the TTC Honey linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. They offer a silky sensation and gliding effect when typing, making them incredibly smooth and frictionless. Additionally, the Honey switches have a deep and pleasant sound profile, providing a subdued and subtle sound when pressed.

On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a sharp tactile bump, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is the way to go. These switches have a bottom out force of 80 grams, which provides a more pronounced feedback and requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. The Blueberry switches offer a snappy and reactive feel, making your typing experience more invigorating. They also have a lower-than-average sound frequency, resulting in a clean and sharp sound profile.

Ultimately, your choice between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch will depend on your preference for typing feel and sound. Consider the light and creamy typing experience of the Honey switch versus the heavier and snappier feel of the Blueberry switch. Additionally, factor in the sound profiles, with the Honey switch offering a subdued sound and the Blueberry switch having a low-pitched and resonant sound. With these considerations in mind, you can make an informed decision based on your personal preferences.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Honey Linear

$9.99

$6.78 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more