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Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Everglide Sakura Pink

An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch, and the Everglide Sakura Pink, a linear switch. The NovelKeys Blueberry is known for its sharp tactile bump, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a precise typing feel. It has a lower-than-average sound frequency, slightly deeper but not overpowering. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches are incredibly light, with a feather-light 35g actuation force. This makes them perfect for delicate typists who prefer a gentle touch. They offer a smooth and effortless typing experience, gliding effortlessly with frictionless operation. The Sakura Pinks also have a playful side, producing a delightfully poppy sound akin to popping bubble wrap. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

55g

Actuation force

35g

Bottom-out force

80g

Bottom-out force

45g

Pre-travel

3.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 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

Polycarbonate

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Stainless steel

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches differ in terms of their sound profiles and aesthetic features. The Blueberry switch utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Sakura Pink switch incorporates polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material allows for translucency, making it ideal for the top housing of the Sakura Pink switch if RGB lighting is a desired feature.

However, if we compare the housing materials of the NovelKeys Blueberry and the Everglide Sakura Pink, we can observe certain similarities. Both switches utilize POM as the housing material for the bottom housing, which results in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The sound profile of the bottom housing is deeper and more muted, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. Although the top housing materials differ (POM for Blueberry and polycarbonate for Sakura Pink), the qualities of the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will predominantly influence the sound when releasing a key.

In summary, the main difference between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches lies in their top housing materials. POM top housing in the Blueberry switch creates a unique and relatively muted sound, while polycarbonate top housing in the Sakura Pink switch produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches share the use of POM bottom housing, resulting in an enjoyable typing experience. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference regarding sound profile and aesthetic considerations such as the need for RGB lighting.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The NovelKeys Blueberry has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, while the Sakura Pink requires only 35 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force for the NovelKeys Blueberry is 80 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience, whereas the Sakura Pink demands a lighter pressure of 45 grams for bottoming out.

The weight of a switch is an essential factor to consider, with different preferences stemming from this aspect. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the Sakura Pink, as it allows for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue or strain. This lightweight characteristic makes it ideal for use in work environments or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more robust and pronounced typing experience may choose the NovelKeys Blueberry, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. The 55 grams actuation force provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more substantial tactile experience while typing.

It is important to note that individuals looking for a similar typing experience can achieve comparable results with either switch by adjusting their typing technique. By applying a more deliberate and forceful keystroke, users of the Sakura Pink can replicate the tactile response of the NovelKeys Blueberry, albeit with a lighter actuation and bottom out force. On the contrary, those who prefer the NovelKeys Blueberry but wish to achieve a lighter typing experience can adapt their technique to reduce the force exerted while typing, mimicking the sensation of using the Sakura Pink.

Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. While the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a heavier and more substantial feel, the Sakura Pink provides a lighter and effortless typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent and satisfying key press experience, allowing users to feel the switch travel from the top to the bottom with the same distance. Whether you choose the Blueberry or Sakura Pink, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.

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 Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.

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

The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and lower-than-average sound frequency. Typing on these switches provides a satisfying and sharp typing feel. The sound produced by the Blueberry switches is described as low-pitched and resonant, resulting in a clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch offers a smooth and effortless typing experience with its feather-light 35g actuation force. The Sakura Pink switches have a gliding type feel and a frictionless operation, providing a seamless and easy typing sensation. These switches produce a delightful poppy sound, similar to bubble wrap being popped, adding a playful touch to typing sessions. In terms of sound, the Blueberry switches have a lower-pitched and resonant sound profile, while the Sakura Pink switches are described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound. Both switches offer a buttery typing experience with smooth and fluid keystrokes. Additionally, the Sakura Pink switches are described as creamy, providing a silky sensation and easy-to-press typing experience. While the switches have their own unique qualities, they both offer a pleasing and enjoyable typing experience, catering to different preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a sharp typing feel and a lower sound frequency, 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 a very sharp tactile bump. The sound profile is described as low-pitched and resonant, offering a clean and sharp auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Blueberry switches are snappy, buttery, invigorating, and textured, providing a responsive and immersive typing sensation.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a playful sound, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch would be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches are perfect for delicate typists. The Sakura Pink switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience, described as buttery, creamy, easy-to-press, and frictionless. The sound profile is muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches.

Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Everglide Sakura Pink comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a sharper tactile feel and a lower sound frequency, the Blueberry switches are a great option. However, if you prefer a lighter touch and a playful sound, the Sakura Pink switches would be more suitable. Consider your typing style, preferences, and desired typing experience when making your decision.

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