Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Kailh Sage both offer unique benefits for typists seeking an enhanced typing experience. The NovelKeys Blueberry stands out for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying and precise typing feel. With a lower-than-average sound frequency, these switches emit a slightly deeper, yet not overly "thocky" noise. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage offers a distinct clicky typing experience, perfect for those who crave a refreshing and pronounced clickiness. These switches are also known for their heavy weight, adding to the overall invigorating typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Kailh Sage switches differ in terms of their impact on sound profiles. The Blueberry switch features a POM top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound. This POM housing material absorbs less sound and produces a more resonant and unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate plastic allows for a clearer and more distinct sound, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize sound clarity.

In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the two switches also differ. The Blueberry switch's POM top housing does not allow for RGB lighting due to its lack of translucency. In contrast, the Sage switch's polycarbonate top housing is transparent, making it ideal for users who desire the option of utilizing RGB lighting in their setup.

While the top housing materials of the switches vary, both the Blueberry and Sage switches share a commonality in their POM bottom housing. The POM bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound upon typing. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housings, the bottom housing of both switches ensures a similar typing experience characterized by a pleasing and unique sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are several differences to consider. The NovelKeys Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is considered relatively light. However, it has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience.

On the other hand, the Kailh Sage has an unknown actuation force, making it difficult to compare directly. However, its bottom out force is 70 grams, which falls in the medium-heavy range.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the NovelKeys Blueberry would be the better option due to its lighter actuation force. This would be ideal for extended typing sessions, whether it be for professional work or prolonged gaming sessions. In contrast, the Kailh Sage would be favored by individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel, as its bottom out force is heavier. This would provide a more substantial typing experience, potentially reducing accidental keystrokes.

In summary, the NovelKeys Blueberry has a lighter actuation force and a heavier bottom out force compared to the Kailh Sage, making it the more suitable choice for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, if both switches have equal forces (as the actuation force for the Sage is unknown), one can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Blueberry has a travel distance of 4.0mm, which is the more traditional choice. On the other hand, the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6mm. This makes the Blueberry the longer option and the Sage the shorter option. It is important to note that while 4.0mm is considered a standard distance, the trend towards shorter travel distances has become prevalent, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you are someone who prioritizes quick and responsive keystrokes, the Sage with its 3.6mm travel distance may be the better choice for you. However, for those who prefer a more substantial depth to their keystrokes, the Blueberry with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is best known for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing feel. In terms of sound, the Blueberry switch produces a low-pitched sound frequency that is deeper than average but not "thocky". It has a clean and sharp sound profile with a lower tone. As for feel, the Blueberry switch is described as snappy, invigorating, and buttery, offering a super responsive and tactile typing experience. It has a smooth and fluid keystroke with noticeable friction when pressed, providing a textured sensation. Overall, the Blueberry switch delivers a sharp typing feel with a lower-pitched sound frequency.

On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch stands out for its distinct clicky typing experience. Its weight is described as quite heavy, resulting in a refreshingly sharp clickiness. In terms of sound, the Sage switch produces a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Unfortunately, there is no other available information about the Sage switch's sound profile. When it comes to feel, the Sage switch is also described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. It has a sharp tactile bump that is prominent and distinct with each keypress.

In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blueberry switch produces a lower-pitched sound frequency with a clean and sharp profile, while the Sage switch has a crunchy sound, but additional details are unknown. Both switches are considered invigorating with pronounced feedback, providing a snappy and reactive feel. The Blueberry switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and textural sensation, while the Sage switch delivers a distinct clicky typing experience. Based on the available information, if you're looking for a sharp typing feel with a lower-pitched sound, the Blueberry switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a distinct clicky experience with a crunchy sound, the Sage switch may be the better option.

Conclusion

To conclude, if you are someone who loves a sharp typing feel with a lower-than-average sound frequency, then the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams and provide a snappy, buttery, invigorating, and slightly textured typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and a refreshing sharp clickiness, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, the Sage offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound profile.

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