Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Red, a linear switch. The NovelKeys Blueberry is favored for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback. The sound produced is lower-than-average, with a deeper pitch that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch lacks a distinct feature but is known for its smooth linear feel. While the Blueberry is described as ['Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Stiff'], the Red does not fall into any specific category. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their individual typing 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
55g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Red switches offer unique sound profiles due to their different material compositions. The Blueberry features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of POM in the bottom housing of the Blueberry switch continues the trend of a deep and muted sound, while the Red's nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller and rounder sound profile.
The aesthetics of the switches also differ due to their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Red allows for a clear housing, ideal for displaying RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a more opaque appearance. While both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, the material used in the top housing has a more immediate impact on the sound when pressing a key, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when fully depressing the key.
Despite their differences, both the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Red switches demonstrate how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether it be the deep and muted sound of POM or the crisper and sharper sound of polycarbonate, each material offers a distinct typing experience for users. Additionally, the use of softer nylon in the bottom housing of the Red switch showcases how different materials can absorb sound differently, resulting in a more rounded sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is evident that the Blueberry switch is heavier in both aspects. The Blueberry switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a more robust option for those who prefer a substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium option that offers a slightly lighter typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Outemu Red switch more suitable for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a heavier push feel may opt for the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance can result in a consistent typing experience for users who prefer a shorter travel distance. Both switches offer a reliable and responsive keystroke, with the difference lying in their tactile and linear characteristics.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Red comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a low-pitched and resonant typing experience, with a deep tone that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch's sound profile is unspecified, but it is important to keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors including the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the NovelKeys Blueberry is described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and slightly stiff. These qualities contribute to a typing experience that is responsive, smooth, with noticeable friction for those who prefer it, and immersive due to pronounced feedback. Conversely, information about the feel of the Outemu Red linear switch is not provided.
Overall, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch stands out for its sharp tactile bump, lower-than-average sound frequency, and varied feel qualities that cater to different preferences. In contrast, information about the sound and feel of the Outemu Red linear switch is not available, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches. Nevertheless, individuals interested in a tactile switch with unique sound and feel characteristics may find the NovelKeys Blueberry to be a suitable option, while the Outemu Red linear switch remains a mystery in terms of its subjective qualities.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a sharp tactile bump with a lower-than-average sound frequency, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch could be a great choice for you. With its snappy and invigorating typing experience, this switch is ideal for those who want a responsive and pronounced feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Outemu Red linear switch with its medium bottom out force could be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for tactile feedback, typing sound, and overall typing experience.
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