Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Everglide Oreo

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and Everglide Oreo offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The NovelKeys Blueberry is widely recognized for its sharp tactile bump, giving typists an invigorating and textured typing feel. With a lower-than-average sound frequency, it provides a satisfying yet not overly "thocky" auditory experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo offers a different kind of tactile sensation, characterized by a crisp and responsive bump at the top, followed by a cushioned feeling when bottoming out. These switches strike a delightful balance between a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. In terms of sound, the Oreo exhibits a subtle and mellow profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Everglide Oreo switches differ in terms of sound profile and aesthetic qualities. The NovelKeys Blueberry features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. This softer sound profile may be preferred by those who desire a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the Oreo switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This can provide a more pronounced and energetic typing experience, particularly appealing to those who enjoy a vibrant and lively sound.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the Blueberry and Oreo switches also differ in material. The POM bottom housing of the Blueberry switch contributes to its deeper and more muted sound profile, complementing the POM top housing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Oreo switch enhances its sharper and crisper sound. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, making it an important factor to consider for users who prioritize tactile feedback and responsiveness.

While the housing materials of the Blueberry and Oreo switches vary, it is worth noting that they both share similar properties within their respective top and bottom housings. POM, found in the top and bottom housing of the Blueberry switch, creates a pleasing and unique sound profile with a deeper tone. Likewise, polycarbonate, present in the top and bottom housing of the Oreo switch, results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, particularly beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting. In this aspect, users can anticipate obtaining comparable results and experiences from each switch due to the shared material properties of their corresponding housing components.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The NovelKeys Blueberry switch has a relatively heavier actuation force of 55 grams, meaning it requires a significant amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, it has a bottom out force of 80 grams, further emphasizing its heavier nature. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a more responsive and effortless typing experience. Its bottom out force of 55 grams suggests a medium-light touch when pressing all the way down.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Everglide Oreo switch would be the ideal choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces enable comfortable and prolonged typing without causing fatigue. On the contrary, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch caters to individuals who desire a more substantial and tactile feel when typing. Its higher actuation and bottom out forces deliver a satisfyingly robust keystroke, albeit requiring more effort.

Overall, weight considerations play a significant role in the selection of switches. Some users may opt for a lighter switch to enhance their typing endurance, making it suitable for extended work sessions or long gaming sessions. Conversely, those seeking a more pronounced push and tactile experience would lean towards options with higher actuation and bottom out forces. It is important to note that although the forces differ between the two switches, they provide comparable results in terms of actuation and bottoming out, tailored to the preferences of the user.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the user will experience a similar feeling when pressing down on the keys of either switch. Therefore, the travel distance of both switches is equal.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a lower-than-average frequency, resulting in a slightly deeper sound profile. It is not "thocky" but still provides a clean and sharp resonance. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offers a subtle and mellow sound profile, described as chirpy with a unique acoustic signature. It should be noted that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a lower and sharper sound, the NovelKeys Blueberry is the better choice, while the Everglide Oreo provides a more mellow and somewhat chirpy sound experience. Both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences, allowing users to select based on their personal preference.

In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a sharp and snappy tactile bump, resulting in a typing experience that feels responsive and invigorating. It is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. Additionally, some users may appreciate the textured feel of these switches, as they provide noticeable friction when pressed. Conversely, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is characterized as accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It provides a prominent amount of tactile feedback without being scratchy. Another aspect to note is the stepped feel of the Oreo switch, which means there is a mild pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving a slight differentiation in the keystroke. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the sharper and invigorating experience of the Blueberry switch or the more accentuated and stepped tactility of the Oreo switch.

In conclusion, the NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch each have their unique subjective qualities. The Blueberry switch offers a sharp typing feel with a lower-than-average sound frequency and an invigorating, snappy tactile bump. On the other hand, the Oreo switch provides a delectably cushioned sensation with medium light tactility, accompanied by a subtle, mellow sound profile. While the Blueberry is better for those seeking a more lively and textured typing experience, the Oreo offers a balanced and accented tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and the desired level of tactility.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Blueberry switches may be the perfect fit for you. They provide a snappy and invigorating typing experience with a stiff bottom out force of 80 grams. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light tactility and a subtler sound profile, the Oreo switches might be more suited to your taste. They offer a delightful cushioned sensation when bottoming out, with a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Oreos are described as accented switches, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, they can be compared to stepped switches, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, so it's important to consider your preferences and typing needs when making a decision.

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