KTT Miaowu vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Miaowu, a linear switch, and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch. The Miaowu switch is known for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action thanks to its POK stem material, setting it apart from others with POM stems. It is described as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch stands out for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing feel for those who enjoy a pronounced feedback. Classified as 'Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Stiff', these switches also offer a unique sound profile. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Miaowu and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. In comparison, the NovelKeys Blueberry's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a different auditory sensation. Both materials have their own strengths, with polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound, while POM offers a pleasing and unique sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Miaowu's nylon material provides a deeper and fuller sound when typing, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, aligning with its overall sound characteristics. Despite the slight differences in the sound produced by the bottom housing materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique qualities.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in determining its sound profile. While the Miaowu and the NovelKeys Blueberry have different materials for their top and bottom housings, they both aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience with their distinct sound characteristics. Whether it's the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Miaowu or the deeper sound of POM in the Blueberry, both switches offer a unique and pleasing sound profile that caters to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is evident that the Miaowu is lighter while the Blueberry is heavier. The Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, indicating a heavier push feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may opt for the Miaowu, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier Blueberry switch. Understanding the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches can help individuals make an informed decision based on their preferences for typing or gaming comfort.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the travel distance of 4 mm found in the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch. The Miaowu offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking faster key presses. On the other hand, the Blueberry tactile switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose the switch that best suits their preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 KTT Miaowu linear switch is often described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a lower-pitched and resonant sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a clean and sharp auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Miaowu linear switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that is lively and gives a rebound effect when pressed. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience with longer or dual-staged springs that make the keys feel more alive. Additionally, the Blueberry switch is noted for its buttery and invigorating feel, providing a smooth and seamless keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a firm actuation force. Some users may also prefer the textured feel of the Blueberry switch, which offers noticeable friction when pressed.
Overall, the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Miaowu switch provides a clacky sound with a bouncy feel, while the NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a low-pitched, resonant sound with a snappy, buttery, and invigorating feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound, typing sensation, and feedback, users can select the switch that aligns with their individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide a unique and satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smoother keystroke action, the Miaowu switch with its 50-gram bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharper tactile bump and a heavier 80-gram bottom out force, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch could be more to your liking. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the Miaowu switch may suit your preferences. However, if you prefer a low-pitched, resonant sound and a combination of snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch might be the better option for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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