Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Tom mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are tactile switches, there are notable differences to consider. The NovelKeys Blueberry switch is favored for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who appreciate a pronounced feedback. The sound frequency emitted while typing on the Blueberry switches is lower-than-average, with a deeper tone that is not overly "thocky." On the other hand, the Outemu Tom switch lacks specific standout features but provides a reliable tactile feel. If you are someone who values a sharp, textured typing experience, the Blueberry switch may be the better 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
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Tom, one notable difference lies in the top housing material. The NovelKeys Blueberry features a POM top housing, known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Tom boasts a polycarbonate top housing that generates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This difference in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with the POM housing offering a more subdued and relaxed sound compared to the crisper and more resonant sound of the polycarbonate housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the NovelKeys Blueberry once again utilizes POM, resulting in a sound profile that is deeper and more muted. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom employs a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a fuller and deeper sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by POM. This contrast highlights the importance of housing materials in influencing the overall sound and feel of a switch when typing.
When considering how the top and bottom housings combine to affect the typing experience, it becomes clear that each housing material brings unique qualities to the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is primarily felt in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. While the NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Tom may have differences in their housing materials, they ultimately serve the same purpose of influencing the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches, albeit in their own distinct ways.
Weight
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch both have an actuation force of 55 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the NovelKeys Blueberry has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, while the bottom out force for the Outemu Tom is unknown. This indicates that the NovelKeys Blueberry will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel compared to the Outemu Tom. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Tom may be the better choice as its bottom out force is unknown, potentially resulting in a lighter overall feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the weight of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Outemu Tom has a shorter distance compared to the NovelKeys Blueberry. The 0.7 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels when typing or gaming. Some users may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Outemu Tom for faster response times, especially for gaming, while others may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the NovelKeys Blueberry for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Tom 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 but not overly loud sound profile. On the other hand, there is no information available on the sound profile of the Outemu Tom tactile switch, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, it is important to remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is praised for its snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff characteristics, providing a responsive and immersive typing sensation. Meanwhile, there is no information available on the tactile feel of the Outemu Tom switch, making it challenging to gauge how it compares to the NovelKeys Blueberry in terms of tactile feedback and actuation force.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch stands out for its unique tactile bump and lower-than-average sound frequency, offering a sharp and satisfying typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch remain unknown, it is possible to expect similar results in terms of sound and feel if it features characteristics commonly found in other switches of its kind. Ultimately, the best way to determine the right switch for you is to try them out firsthand and see which one aligns with your preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Blueberry switch may be the better choice for you. Its snappy and invigorating feel, coupled with a slightly stiff actuation force, offers a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with an undefined bottom out force and are indifferent to sound and feel preferences, the Tom switch could be a suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and requirements in order to enhance your overall typing experience.
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