Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves debating between tactile and linear switches, such as the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Silver. The NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch that stands out for its sharp tactile bump, appealing to those who enjoy a crisp typing experience. With a lower-than-average sound frequency, these switches offer a deeper but not overwhelming sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is a linear switch that lacks a specific standout feature but is known for its smooth keystrokes. While the NovelKeys Blueberry is described as 'Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Stiff', the Silver remains uncharacterized. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing the right one can greatly enhance your 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Silver, one key difference is that the Blueberry features a POM top housing while the Silver has a polycarbonate top housing. The POM housing of the Blueberry creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate housing of the Silver produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, offering a visually appealing element to the switch design.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Blueberry utilizes a POM bottom housing, similar to its top housing, resulting in a consistent deep and pleasing sound profile. On the other hand, the Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials provides a variation in sound experience when typing on the switches, with the Blueberry offering a more consistent sound profile compared to the Silver.
Overall, the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Silver play a significant role in defining the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While both switches feature unique qualities in their respective top and bottom housing materials, the Blueberry's consistent POM housing provides a deep and pleasing sound profile, while the Silver's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials offers a sharper, crisper sound with a deeper and fuller bottom-out experience. Whether aiming for a more muted sound or a sharper, crisper sound, these housing materials cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Blueberry switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Silver switch. The NovelKeys Blueberry switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, while the Outemu Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Blueberry switch requires more pressure to register a keypress and fully bottom out compared to the Silver switch. Individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Blueberry switch, as it provides a heavier push feel. On the other hand, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Outemu Silver switch more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force. However, it is important to note that both switches offer a satisfactory typing experience, with the potential for similar results in terms of performance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results and a consistent 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 Silver 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 offers a low-pitched and resonant typing experience, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Silver linear switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can vary based on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the NovelKeys Blueberry is known for its snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff qualities. These switches offer a responsive and lively typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke, noticeable friction, pronounced feedback, and a higher actuation force requirement. In comparison, there is no available information on the feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch.
Overall, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch stands out for its unique sharp tactile bump, lower-than-average sound frequency, and a combination of snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff qualities. While the information on the Outemu Silver linear switch is limited, it is essential to consider your personal preferences in sound and feel when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you enjoy a sharp, tactile typing feel with a heavier bottom out force and a lower-pitched, resonant sound profile, the NovelKeys Blueberry may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with no specific sound or feel preference mentioned for the Silver switch, then the Outemu Silver linear switch might be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you personally enjoy and find most comfortable.
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