Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing and contrasting the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch with the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is important to consider the distinct characteristics of each. The NovelKeys Blueberry is favored for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a noticeable tactile feedback. In addition, the Blueberry switch offers a lower-than-average sound frequency, ideal for a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean is known for its silence, making it a suitable choice for users looking for a more discreet typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Silent Ocean both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Blueberry features a POM top housing, which offers a deeper and more muted sound, while the Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and higher-pitched sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, giving it an advantage in terms of visual appeal. On the other hand, the Blueberry's POM bottom housing provides a similar deep and pleasing sound as the top housing, while the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and rounder sound profile due to its softer nature.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the material used for the bottom housing. The Blueberry's POM bottom housing complements the top housing, creating a consistent sound profile that is deep and muted. In contrast, the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder overall sound. This difference in bottom housing material creates a noticeable contrast in sound between the two switches. Additionally, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch is significant, highlighting the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
Despite their differences, the NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Silent Ocean both showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of a switch. While the Blueberry's POM housing offers a consistently pleasing sound that is deep and muted, the Silent Ocean's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a fuller profile. Both switches demonstrate how varying housing materials can impact the typing experience, showcasing the importance of choosing the right materials to achieve desired sound characteristics. Ultimately, whether the switch features a POM or polycarbonate top housing, or a POM or nylon bottom housing, the overall typing experience will be influenced by the unique qualities each material brings to the table.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The NovelKeys Blueberry has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming where fatigue may be a concern. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the NovelKeys Blueberry is heavier overall, while the Silent Ocean provides a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel between the top and bottom of the switch. This similarity in travel distance indicates that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key press depth when using either of these switches. Overall, the shorter travel distance of 4mm for both switches allows for quick and responsive typing, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a more tactile or linear typing experience.
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 Silent Ocean 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
When it comes to sound, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a unique low-pitched and resonant typing experience, creating a deeper but still satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, information on the sound characteristics of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is currently unavailable. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the NovelKeys Blueberry is praised for its snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff qualities, providing a dynamic and responsive typing experience. In contrast, details on the tactile feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch are not provided at this time.
Considering the available information, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch stands out for its sharp tactile bump, lower-than-average sound frequency, and a diverse range of tactile feedback options. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch remain unknown, it is important to note that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches have unique characteristics that may appeal to different users, and experimenting with both can help determine the best fit for individual typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch or the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a heavy tactile bump and a sharp typing feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry would be the ideal choice for you. The lower-than-average sound frequency and the snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff feel of the Blueberry switches make them a great option for those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switches would be more suitable for you. While the Silent Ocean may not have as many distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel compared to the Blueberry switches, its smooth and effortless keystroke experience may be more appealing to those looking for a more subtle typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your individual preferences and typing needs.
Mentioned in this article
