Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer unique experiences are the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the KTT Semi Mute. The NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch that is best known for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing feel for those who prefer a pronounced feedback sensation. Unlike other tactile switches, the Blueberry has a lower-than-average sound frequency, giving it a deeper, yet not overly "thocky" sound. On the other hand, the Semi Mute is a linear switch that excels in offering a silent typing experience. Despite its name, these switches operate completely silently, making them ideal for individuals who value a noise-free environment, especially during late-night sessions. With its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute provides a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the KTT Semi Mute switches are quite distinct in terms of the sound profile they produce. The Blueberry features POM (polyoxymethylene) housings for both the top and bottom, creating a deeper and relatively more muted sound. In comparison, the Semi Mute utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced.
Aesthetically, the choice of housing material is also noteworthy. The Semi Mute's polycarbonate top housing allows for translucency, making it ideal for individuals who plan to use RGB lighting in their keyboards. On the other hand, the Blueberry's POM top housing does not offer this feature. This distinction in transparency can impact the overall visual appeal of the switch, particularly for those who prioritize customizable lighting effects.
Considering the impact of housing materials on the overall switch experience, one should evaluate the preferences in both sound and feel. While the Blueberry and Semi Mute share the characteristics of their respective housing materials, their top and bottom housings distribute these qualities differently. When pressing down on a key, the bottom housing's properties will be more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will exert a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, individuals seeking a specific sound profile or typing experience may prefer one switch over the other based on these distinctions in the distribution of housing material effects.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are notable differences. The NovelKeys Blueberry switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, while the Semi Mute switch requires a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the NovelKeys Blueberry switch will require a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke compared to the Semi Mute switch. Furthermore, in terms of bottom out force, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is heavier, requiring 80 grams of force to fully press down, whereas the Semi Mute switch has a lighter bottom out force of 58 grams.
These differences in actuation and bottom out forces provide distinct typing experiences. The NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a more substantial and tactile typing experience due to its higher forces, making it suitable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch provides a lighter and smoother typing experience with its lower forces, making it ideal for those who prioritize extended typing sessions or require a gentler touch.
While the forces of these switches differ, it's important to note that personal preferences play a significant role in the choice between the two. Those who value a lighter typing experience may prefer the KTT Semi Mute switch, while individuals seeking a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch. Overall, understanding the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches allows users to select the option that aligns best with their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience and feel when pressing down on a key. Whether it is the Blueberry's tactile feedback or the Semi Mute's linear smoothness, users can expect a consistent 4 mm travel distance for both switches. Their travel distance is equal, ensuring that typing or gaming on either switch will yield similar results in terms of pressure and key response.
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 KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 best known for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing feel for those who enjoy a pronounced feedback. When typing on these switches, the sound is lower-than-average in frequency, offering a deeper but not "thocky" tone. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is tailored for a noise-free environment, making it ideal for late-night typing sessions. Despite being completely silent, the Semi Mute switches provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology.
In terms of sound, the NovelKeys Blueberry emits a low-pitched tone that is bass-heavy and mellow, offering a clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the Semi Mute is described as a muted switch, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The sound profile of the Semi Mute switch is neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various purposes and users. It's important to note that the sound experience of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is known for its snappy and invigorating tactile response, providing a super responsive and reactive feel. It also offers a buttery and textured keystroke experience, making it a favorite among users who enjoy a smooth and fluid typing sensation with noticeable friction. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch also offers a buttery typing experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform feel. It is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, but with slight differences in tactility and smoothness.
Considering all the available information, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blueberry switch provides a sharp and tactile typing experience with a lower-frequency sound, while the Semi Mute switch offers a completely silent operation and a mild and buttery typing feel. Both switches provide unique advantages depending on the user's preferences and requirements. However, if you are seeking a similar experience, the Semi Mute linear switch can offer a noise-free environment similar to the Blueberry switch while providing a more gentle and approachable typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a sharp tactile feel and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a snappy and invigorating typing sensation, perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced feedback and a responsive feel. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be more suitable. Despite being completely silent, these switches provide a buttery and mild typing experience, ensuring a smooth and gentle keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the NovelKeys Blueberry and the KTT Semi Mute will depend on your preference for tactile feedback and noise level, allowing you to enhance your typing experience based on your specific needs.
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