Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. KTT Pine

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the KTT Pine. The NovelKeys Blueberry switch is known for its sharp tactile bump, which provides a satisfying typing feel for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. Additionally, these switches have a lower-than-average sound frequency, producing a deeper and enjoyable typing sound. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch stands out with its medium-heavy weight and buttery smooth operation, ensuring an effortless typing experience. With a polished and factory-lubed finish, these switches minimize friction for smooth key travel. While the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a sharp and textured typing experience, the KTT Pine provides a creamy and low-pitched experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

KTT Pine Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

$4.60

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the KTT Pine switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The NovelKeys Blueberry features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Pine switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of the polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for RGB lighting.

Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches also exhibit distinct characteristics. The POM bottom housing in the NovelKeys Blueberry produces a deeper and more muted sound when compared to the crisper and resonant sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the KTT Pine. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, which means that these differences will be noticeable when pressing down on the keys.

When comparing the two switches, it becomes evident that the top housing materials have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. The POM top housing in the NovelKeys Blueberry creates a pleasing and unique sound, while the polycarbonate top housing in the KTT Pine produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. It should be noted that the use of a clear housing, which is more likely to be polycarbonate, is beneficial for switches incorporating RGB lighting.

In summary, while the NovelKeys Blueberry and the KTT Pine switches possess different housing materials, they both offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The POM housings of the Blueberry provide a deeper and relatively more muted sound, while the polycarbonate housings of the Pine result in a sharper and crisper sound. These differences can be felt more prominently in the bottom-out sound and feel, governed by the bottom housing. Meanwhile, the top housing materials play a significant role in the sound when key releases, with the POM offering a unique sound and the polycarbonate providing a higher-pitched sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The NovelKeys Blueberry switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, making it a lighter option that allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfactory typing experience with their respective actuation and bottom out forces. So, depending on personal preference, individuals can choose the NovelKeys Blueberry switch for a heavier push feel or the KTT Pine switch for a lighter typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distances of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch are the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. Therefore, there is no difference in terms of travel distance between these two switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a low-pitched tone with a clean and sharp sound profile. The lower-than-average sound frequency adds a subtle depth without being overly "thocky." On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This switch's sound resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, giving users the option to choose between a lower-pitched but sharp sound (Blueberry) or a deeper and richer bass tone (Pine). However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a snappy and invigorating typing experience. Its sharp tactile bump and responsive nature make it perfect for users who seek a more lively typing sensation. Additionally, it provides a buttery and textured feel, appealing to users who enjoy switches with noticeable friction. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. The factory-lubed finish minimizes friction, resulting in a smooth key travel experience. Both switches provide a satisfying and smooth typing feel, with the Blueberry being snappier and textured while the Pine offers a more fluid and creamy sensation.

Considering the available information, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch excels in providing a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency. It offers a snappy and invigorating typing experience with noticeable friction. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch stands out for its buttery and creamy typing feel, thanks to the factory-lubed finish and overall smooth key travel. While they have their distinct qualities, both switches deliver a quality typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the sharper and textured experience of the Blueberry or the fluid and creamy sensation of the Pine.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering whether to choose the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch or the KTT Pine linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a sharp tactile bump, the NovelKeys Blueberry would be the better choice for you. It offers a snappy and invigorating typing sensation, accompanied by a lower-than-average sound frequency that is a little deeper but not excessively deep. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine would be the preferable option. Its buttery and creamy feel, achieved through a factory-lubed finish, provides a seamless and uniform typing sensation. In terms of sound, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a low-pitched and resonant profile, while the Pine provides a bassy and low-pitched tone. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile feedback, bottom out force, and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

KTT Pine Linear

$4.60

$4.15 per 10

Learn more