KTT Matcha vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, there are a plethora of switch options to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics and benefits. Two popular switches in the tactile category are the KTT Matcha and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The Matcha is known for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the Matcha boasts a distinctly clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch offers a very sharp tactile bump, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feel. Despite its sharpness, the Blueberry maintains a lower-than-average sound frequency, giving it a unique and pleasing auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches differ significantly, with the Matcha featuring a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Blueberry utilizes a POM top and bottom housing. The Matcha's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Blueberry's POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound attributes can greatly impact the typing experience, providing users with distinct preferences depending on their desired sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate housing of the Matcha switch provides a translucent appearance, making it suitable for those who wish to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch's POM housing does not offer the same translucency, which may limit its visual appeal for users who prefer illuminated keyboards. Therefore, if you prioritize visual effects and plan to incorporate RGB lighting, the Matcha's polycarbonate top housing would be a more suitable choice.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize the same materials as their respective top housing. While the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the switch's sharper and crisper sound profile, the Blueberry's POM bottom housing enhances its deeper and more muted sound. These differences in sound characteristics can greatly affect the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing has a bigger impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches deliver distinct sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The polycarbonate housing of the Matcha produces a sharper and crisper sound, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a higher-pitched typing experience with clear resonance. In contrast, the Blueberry's POM housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique and pleasing typing experience. Both switches have their own advantages, and the choice between them ultimately comes down to individual preference in terms of sound and visual appeal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, we can see some notable differences. The Matcha switch has a lighter actuation force, requiring only 40 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Blueberry switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams. As for the bottom out force, the Matcha switch requires 45 grams of force to fully press down, while the Blueberry switch has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Matcha switch. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces make it easier to type for longer durations, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Blueberry switch. With its higher actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and a satisfying typing experience.
While the Matcha switch offers a lighter typing experience, the Blueberry switch provides a heavier and more intense feel. Both switches have their distinct advantages, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier keystroke.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is a crucial factor in determining the overall typing experience. In the case of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, both switches have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback without any notable differences in the distance traveled. Whether one opts for the KTT Matcha or the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, both switches will provide a similar travel experience, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 KTT Matcha tactile switch is best known for its comfortable and snappy tactility when typing. It provides a distinctly clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is renowned for its sharp tactile bump, which gives it a sharp typing feel. When typing on the Blueberry switches, a lower-than-average sound frequency, a little deeper than average but not "thocky," is detected.
In terms of sound, the Matcha switch can be described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch has a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It also provides a clean and sharp resonant sound experience, immersing the user in an auditory sensation. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel, the Matcha switch has multiple descriptors. It is classified as a stepped switch, meaning it feels like it has two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is also snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. Additionally, the Matcha switch can be described as accented, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It is considered feathery, requiring little exertion to press and reducing finger fatigue. Overall, it provides a subtle resistance and is suitable for shared spaces.
Similarly, the Blueberry switch is also snappy, giving it a super responsive feel. It is labeled as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Some users may appreciate its textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed. This switch is also invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, it is classified as stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and/or bottom-out.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha switch provides a clacky sound with comfortable tactility, while the Blueberry switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound with a sharp typing feel. Both switches are snappy and provide a responsive typing experience. Additionally, the Matcha switch has a feathery and subtle feel, reducing finger fatigue and making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch is buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback. It is important to consider personal preferences and other factors, such as board and keycaps, when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a light and comfortable typing experience with a distinctly clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is the way to go. These switches have a snappy tactility and a subtle, feathery feel that reduces fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Matcha also provides a clacky sound when pressed, which can be described as sharp, crisp, and bright.
On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing feel with a sharp tactile bump, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be a great choice. These switches offer a snappy and invigorating typing sensation, with a lower-than-average sound frequency that is a little deeper than average. The Blueberry switches have a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Matcha and Blueberry switches depends on your personal preferences. If you value a light and subtle typing experience with a clean sound, go for the Matcha. But if you prefer a heavier and invigorating typing feel with a lower-pitched and resonant sound, the Blueberry switches are for you.
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