Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it's clear that each offers unique features to consider. The Blueberry switch is praised for its sharp tactile bump, perfect for those seeking a distinct typing feel. Additionally, it emits a lower frequency sound, deeper than average but not overly loud. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switch lacks specific standout features, but still delivers a satisfying clicky feel during typing. While the Blueberry switch is described as 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Stiff', the Spring Breeze switch falls under a different category. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze, we see that the Blueberry utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, while the Spring Breeze uses nylon for both components. POM is known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas nylon produces a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition. Both materials absorb sound to some degree, resulting in a somewhat duller sound compared to harder plastics. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a unique and pleasing typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
The use of POM in the NovelKeys Blueberry's housing material contributes to its deep and pleasing sound, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze's nylon housing provides a fuller sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. Both POM and nylon offer benefits in terms of sound absorption, creating a more muted and rounded sound that enhances the tactile feedback of the switches. While the materials differ, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
When looking at the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it can be seen that the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. In the case of the NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Spring Breeze, the qualities of POM and nylon in the bottom housing contribute significantly to the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches. Conversely, the top housing material plays a greater role in the sound produced when releasing a key, affecting the overall typing experience in a distinct way. Despite these differences, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch differ significantly in weight. The NovelKeys Blueberry has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing users with a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Spring Breeze has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option for those who prefer a gentler typing feel. The heavier force of the NovelKeys Blueberry is ideal for users who prefer a stronger push feel, while the lighter force of the Spring Breeze may be more suitable for those who prioritize extended typing sessions or gaming comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these switches, it is evident that both offer the same tactile experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you are using the NovelKeys Blueberry or the Spring Breeze, you can expect similar results in terms of keypress depth. Both switches provide a satisfying level of travel distance for users who enjoy a tactile 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 Spring Breeze 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 experience, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, it's essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry is described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff. These characteristics offer a responsive, smooth, friction-filled, feedback-rich, and forceful typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Spring Breeze switch's feel attributes are not provided, making it challenging to establish a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of typing feel.
Taking into account the available information, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and Outemu Spring Breeze switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blueberry switch is known for its sharp tactile bump, low-pitched and resonant sound, and a variety of feel descriptors, the Spring Breeze switch lacks detailed information for a precise comparison. Ultimately, when considering which switch to choose, it's essential to determine your preferred sound and feel qualities to ensure an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a heavy bottom out force with a sharp tactile bump and a lower, resonant sound profile, the NovelKeys Blueberry might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a different sound profile, the Spring Breeze could be the better option. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and bottom out force preference to determine which switch aligns best with your needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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