Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular choices in the market are the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch, and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a linear switch. The NovelKeys Blueberry is favored by those who crave a sharp and tactile typing feel, boasting a very crisp tactile bump. Not only does it provide an invigorating typing experience, but it also produces a lower-than-average sound frequency, making it ideal for individuals who desire a quieter typing session without sacrificing the satisfying feedback. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear stands out with its innovative semi-silent feature. It offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, striking a balance between a quiet experience and a satisfying click. With its silky smooth type feel, this switch offers a polished experience that is not overly slick. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can decide on the best switch for your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches differ in terms of their impact on sound profiles. The POM top housing of the NovelKeys Blueberry creates a deeper and more muted sound, which gives it a unique and pleasing sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that provides a clearer resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Blueberry shares similarities with its top housing. It also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, creating a cohesive overall experience. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in materials showcases how the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
It's worth noting that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Therefore, pressing down on these switches will primarily reveal the characteristics of the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key will be influenced by the top housing. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that add distinctiveness to typing or gaming experiences, making them viable options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there are clear differences. The NovelKeys Blueberry has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, requiring a bit more pressure to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is unknown, making it difficult to compare directly. Moving on to the bottom out force, the NovelKeys Blueberry once again takes the lead with a heavier force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when pressing all the way down. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly lighter.
Considering the impact of weight, those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear more suitable. This lighter weight allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for work settings or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals looking for a more solid and forceful push while typing might opt for the NovelKeys Blueberry. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces of this switch can offer a more substantial typing experience, providing a satisfying tactile response.
While the actuation force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is unknown, the weight comparison between the two switches suggests that individuals seeking a lighter option would be more inclined to choose it. However, it is important to mention that if both switches have a similar actuation force, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter or stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch have different travel distances. The NovelKeys Blueberry has a travel distance of 4mm, which is considered more traditional, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7mm. The difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Semi-Silent Linear may be the better option for you. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth to their keystrokes. If you fall into this category, the NovelKeys Blueberry would be the preferable switch with its slightly longer travel distance. It's important to consider individual preferences and the intended use of the keyboard when making a decision between these two switch options.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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, providing a distinct and responsive typing feel. When it comes to sound, these switches have a lower-than-average frequency, with a deeper tone that is not "thocky." On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch stands out for its innovation, offering a semi-silent experience with its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and clacky bottom-out sound. This switch provides a silky smooth typing feel that is not overly polished.
In terms of sound, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is described as having a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. The low-pitched sound gives it a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the resonant nature produces a clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is characterized by a subdued sound when pressed. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound compared to most switches. It is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and user levels.
In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch has multiple descriptors. It is described as snappy, indicating its super responsive nature due to longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, it offers a buttery typing experience, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke. Some users may find it textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. It is also invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. It is also snappy and buttery, providing a responsive and smooth keystroke. Some users may find it polished, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blueberry switch provides a sharp tactile bump, lower-than-average sound frequency, and various feel options including snappy and invigorating. Meanwhile, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a semi-silent experience with a clacky bottom-out sound, subdued and neutral sound profile, and a mild and polished feel. While they have their unique characteristics, those seeking similar results to the Blueberry's sharp typing feel or the Semi-Silent Linear's silky smooth experience can find comparable options based on their preferences within the available information.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the NovelKeys Blueberry is a great choice. This switch offers a snappy, buttery, textured, and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle typing experience with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, the Semi-Silent Linear is the way to go. It provides a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing sensation. Additionally, the Semi-Silent Linear has a lower bottom out force compared to the Blueberry switch, making it a medium-weight option. Ultimately, both switches have unique characteristics, and the decision will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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