Gateron Ink Red vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch, known for its lower actuation force, which makes it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. These switches provide a satisfyingly smooth typing experience, accompanied by a crispy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch that boasts a very sharp tactile bump, adding a pronounced feel to each keystroke. Typing on these switches produces a lower-than-average sound frequency, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a deeper but not "thocky" sound. Both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry both have distinct characteristics when it comes to their housing materials. Starting with the top housing, the Ink Red utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend, which creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying clacky sound that is not overly sharp. In contrast, the Blueberry's POM top housing offers a unique sound experience that is deeper in tone and relatively more muted. This creates a softer and more subdued typing experience compared to the Ink Red.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ink Red maintains its proprietary INK blend, which once again produces a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This contributes to the clacky sound that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Blueberry features a POM bottom housing. POM housings are known to create an incredibly pleasing sound, but in the case of the Blueberry, it leans towards a deeper and more muted sound profile. This offers a contrast to the high-pitched sound of the Ink Red and provides users with a different auditory experience.

When comparing the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom housing for each switch. This means that when you press down on the switch, you will feel the impact and qualities of the bottom housing, which affects the bottom-out sound and feel. The Ink Red's bottom housing contributes to its clacky sound profile, while the Blueberry's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when you release a key. Therefore, the Ink Red's INK blend top housing provides a clacky yet not overly sharp sound, while the Blueberry's POM top housing offers a deeper and relatively more muted sound. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the two switches result in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ink Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Blueberry's 55 grams, making the Ink Red more responsive and easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the bottom out force of the Ink Red is 60 grams, while the Blueberry requires a heavier force of 80 grams to fully press down. This means that the Blueberry offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a satisfying tactile feedback. Those who desire a lighter switch for longer typing periods or gaming sessions may find the Ink Red more suitable, while individuals seeking a heavier switch for a more pronounced typing experience could opt for the Blueberry. Overall, the Ink Red provides a medium force experience, while the Blueberry leans towards the heavy side.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Ink 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 using either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Thus, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Red switch is best described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate pitch. It produces a satisfyingly smooth and crisp sound while typing, with a slight chirp that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch has a lower-pitched sound with a clean and sharp profile. It offers a more immersive auditory experience, and although it is deeper than average, it does not have a pronounced "thocky" sound. It is important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch provides a silky and polished typing experience. It is exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It falls into the category of a mild switch, which offers a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. Its qualities lie in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it versatile for various typing styles. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a snappy and buttery feel. It is super responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs, giving it an alive and fluid keystroke experience. It also has a textured characteristic, providing noticeable friction when pressed. Additionally, it offers an invigorating sensation with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force.

Taking all the available information into account, we can see that the Gateron Ink Red and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ink Red switch is suitable for those with a lighter typing style, providing a smooth and crisp feel with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is ideal for individuals who enjoy a sharper tactile bump and a more immersive auditory experience. It offers a snappier and textured feel, with a lower-pitched sound. While these switches differ in their characteristics, both deliver a satisfying and effortless typing experience. Therefore, if you are seeking similar results in terms of sound or feel, it is recommended to choose the switch that aligns with your preferred sound profile and tactile preference.

Conclusion

In closing, if you prefer a lighter typing style and want a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With a bottom-out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium actuation force and provides a satisfyingly smooth and clacky sound profile. Additionally, the Ink Red switch is described as neutral or chirpy in terms of sound, which makes it suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, if you love a sharp tactile bump and want a typing feel that is snappy and invigorating, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom-out force of 80 grams, it offers a heavier actuation force and a lower-than-average sound frequency. The Blueberry switch is described as low-pitched and resonant, providing a clean and sharp sound profile. Overall, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on your personal preference for typing style, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more