Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch to the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it's clear that each offers a unique typing experience. The Blueberry switches are favored for their sharp tactile bump, ideal for those who enjoy a distinct typing feel. With a lower-than-average sound frequency and a "thocky" sound, they are categorized as ['Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Stiff']. On the other hand, the Silent White switches do not have a specific standout feature but are known for their smooth linear feel. If you prefer a quieter typing experience without the tactile bump, the Silent White may be the choice for you. 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
60g
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Silent White switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different properties. The POM top housing of the NovelKeys Blueberry provides a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent White creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. These differences in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience and preference of users, with the NovelKeys Blueberry offering a more subdued sound compared to the more pronounced sound of the Silent White.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry uses POM, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles between the two switches can be attributed to the properties of the housing materials used, with softer plastics like nylon absorbing more sound compared to stiffer plastics like POM. This difference in sound can affect the overall typing experience and preference of users who may prefer a quieter or more pronounced sound.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the two switches offer distinct sound profiles, they also play a role in the feel of the switch when typing. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the properties of each housing material can help users choose a switch that suits their preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Ultimately, both the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Silent White offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it is clear that the Blueberry switch is heavier than the Silent White switch. The Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, while the Silent White has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Blueberry switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Silent White switch provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between a lighter or heavier force will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it is evident that the Blueberry has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the Silent White's 3.3 mm. The Blueberry offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the Silent White offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a longer, more pronounced key press or a shorter, more responsive one. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, so users can expect distinct experiences when using either of them.
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 White 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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and resonant characteristics, providing a deeper yet clean and sharp sound profile during typing. In contrast, the Outemu Silent White linear switch's sound profile is currently unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
As for the typing feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch has been described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff, providing a responsive and immersive typing experience with noticeable feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. On the other hand, information on the typing feel of the Outemu Silent White switch is currently unavailable. It's important to note that the typing experience is subjective and can vary based on personal preferences.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch appears to offer a unique typing experience with its sharp tactile bump, lower-than-average sound frequency, and various tactile qualities. While information on the Outemu Silent White linear switch's sound and feel is currently unknown, it's possible to expect different results when compared to the NovelKeys Blueberry switch. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, typing feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump with a lower-than-average sound frequency, the NovelKeys Blueberry may be the better option for you. The Blueberry switch offers a snappy and invigorating typing experience with a firm actuation force. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Silent White linear switch could be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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