Durock Light Tactile vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a multitude of options available, each with its unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out are the Durock Light Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a gentle and angelic tactility, creating a pleasant typing experience. It is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a smoother and more subtle tactile feel. On the other hand, the Blueberry switches from Kailh NovelKeys offer a sharp and invigorating tactile bump, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feel. These switches have a lower-than-average sound frequency, adding a deeper and resonant tone to the typing experience. Categorized as 'Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating', the Blueberry switches provide a satisfying feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their sound and feel. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer nature, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material is especially ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry's POM top housing offers a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side, resulting in a more muted sound.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the Light Tactile utilizes a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Its relatively softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Blueberry contributes to a pleasing and unique deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted.
Although the housing materials differ for both switches, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, you will predominantly feel the impact of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have more influence on the sound produced when letting go of a key. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Light Tactile having a sharper and crisper tone, while the Blueberry leans towards a deeper and more muted sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch, there are notable similarities and differences. The Light Tactile has a lighter actuation force, requiring 52 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Blueberry switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, both switches provide a comparable typing experience in this regard.
When it comes to bottoming out, the Durock Light Tactile switch requires 67 grams of force to fully press down, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter feel may find the Durock Light Tactile switch more suitable, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This makes it ideal for activities like work or extended gaming sessions. However, individuals seeking a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch, with its heavier forces.
In summary, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch. While both options provide a satisfactory typing experience, the Blueberry switch caters to those who prefer a heavier and more substantial feel, while the Light Tactile switch is better suited for those seeking a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Thus, whether you choose the Durock Light Tactile or the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience provided by the switch's travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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
The Durock Light Tactile switch is known for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature. When typing on these switches, users will experience a soft and angelic tactility, which is a refreshing contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. The sound produced by the Light Tactile switch is described as neutral, with a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether it be for beginners or experienced typists, and can be used both at home or in a professional setting.
On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch is renowned for its sharp tactile bump, providing a typing experience that is favored by those who prefer a sharper feel. When typing on these switches, users will notice a lower-than-average sound frequency that is deeper but not "thocky." The sound of the Blueberry switch is described as low-pitched and resonant, offering a clean and sharp auditory experience during typing sessions.
In terms of sound, the Light Tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, while the Blueberry switch has a low-pitched resonant sound. Depending on other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, these switches will provide distinct auditory experiences. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors and individual preferences.
In terms of feel, the Light Tactile switch offers a mild typing experience, with qualities that fall within a safe and middle-ground zone. The switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing sensation. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch is snappy, offering a responsive typing experience. It is also described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Blueberry switch is invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and an immersive typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Tactile switch provides a gentle and jelly-like sound, along with a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch offers a sharper tactile feel and a lower-pitched resonant sound, providing a snappy and buttery typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can deliver satisfying results, but for those seeking a softer and more gentle typing experience with a neutral sound, the Light Tactile switch is recommended.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are looking for a softer and more gentle tactile switch, the Durock Light Tactile is the way to go. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a comfortable typing experience with its angelic and jelly-like tactility. The Light Tactile is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings, whether at home or at work. In terms of feel, the Light Tactile offers a mild and approachable typing sensation with its polished and smooth finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a sharper and more pronounced tactile feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry is the switch for you. With a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, these switches deliver a sharp tactile bump, resulting in a typing experience that is loved by enthusiasts seeking a more tactile feedback. The Blueberry switches offer a lower-than-average sound frequency, with a clean and sharp sound profile. Their snappy and buttery feel, along with the invigorating feedback, create an immersive typing sensation that is responsive and satisfying.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry depends on your personal preferences for the level of tactility, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider factors such as typing intensity, noise sensitivity, and desired level of feedback when making your decision. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns with your specific needs.
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