Bsun Kiki Red vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, you'll find distinct differences in their typing experiences. The Kiki Red offers a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance and smooth actuation due to its all-POM housings and Ly stems. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry provides a sharp tactile bump for a distinctive typing feel and a lower-than-average sound frequency. While the Kiki Red prioritizes subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance, the Blueberry switch focuses on a sharp and invigorating 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches are both made of POM, which is known for creating a pleasing and unique sound profile. Both switches have a sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively muted, making them attractive choices for those seeking a quieter typing experience. The POM material used in both switches contributes to a consistent and satisfying typing sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
While the top and bottom housings of the Kiki Red and the Blueberry switches are both made of POM, they play different roles in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the typing experience when a key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, adding to the overall sound profile of the switch. Despite these differences, the POM material used in both switches provides a consistent and enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Both switches utilize POM material in their housings, resulting in a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. While the top and bottom housings of the switches play different roles in the typing experience, the overall impact of the POM material is consistent in both switches, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. Whether choosing the Kiki Red or the Blueberry switch, users can expect a consistent and enjoyable typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red has a lighter touch compared to the Blueberry. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The Kiki Red offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, while the Blueberry provides a heavier push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience. Overall, the Kiki Red is lighter, allowing for extended typing sessions, while the Blueberry is heavier, providing a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Blueberry has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Kiki Red's 3.6 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it ideal for those who prioritize fast response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Blueberry's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper and more substantial keystroke feel, which may be preferred by those who appreciate a more pronounced key press. Both switches offer unique advantages, with the Kiki Red catering to speed and the Blueberry catering to depth, providing users with options based on their individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, while the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch provides a lower-pitched and resonant sound profile. The Kiki Red switch is characterized by a sharp and snappy sound that is not excessively loud, giving a bright and percussive feedback. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch produces a deeper tone with a clean and sharp resonance, offering a unique auditory experience. Both switches cater to different preferences in keyboard sound, with the Kiki Red leaning towards a crisp and clacky tone, while the Blueberry delivers a bass-heavy and mellow sound.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These qualities combine to offer a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance and gentle actuation force. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is characterized as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff. Users can expect a responsive and lively typing feel with a seamless and uniform sensation, along with noticeable tactile feedback and varying actuation forces. The Blueberry switch provides a textured experience with a firm actuation force, suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback.
Overall, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer contrasting qualities in sound and feel, catering to different preferences in keyboard switches. While the Kiki Red excels in providing a clacky and smooth typing experience with a medium-light weighting, the Blueberry stands out for its sharp tactile bump and invigorating typing feel. Depending on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or tactile response, each switch offers a unique typing experience that enthusiasts can appreciate.Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance, with the Kiki Red offering a subtle auditory feedback and finesse in performance, while the Blueberry delivers a sharp tactile experience and varying actuation forces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you appreciate a light and smooth typing feel with a high-pitched, clacky sound, then the Kiki Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, along with a snappy and invigorating typing sensation, the NovelKeys Blueberry could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice should be based on personal typing preferences, whether you prioritize smoothness and subtlety or sharp tactility and responsiveness.
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