Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. The Blueberry switch is a tactile switch that is best known for its sharp tactile bump, giving users a satisfying and crisp typing experience. With a lower-than-average sound frequency, it provides a deep but not overly loud sound while typing. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is a linear switch that is perfect for those who value a quieter typing environment. With its cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, it offers a smooth and muted typing experience. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches differ in terms of sound profile and pitch. The NovelKeys Blueberry features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black has a proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. While the Blueberry offers a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper tone, the Silent Ink Black provides a thinner and clackier sound profile.

Similarly, the housing materials for the bottom housings of these switches also differ. The NovelKeys Blueberry utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes to its pleasing and unique sound with a deeper tonality. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black employs the proprietary INK blend bottom housing, known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. The bottom housing material of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a switch.

It is worth noting that if the top and bottom housing materials are different for a specific switch, the qualities of each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing mainly affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more noticeable impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the NovelKeys Blueberry and Gateron Silent Ink Black differ in their housing materials, both switches offer unique and satisfying sound profiles tailored for different preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we can see some notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The NovelKeys Blueberry has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Silent Ink Black's 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Blueberry requires a heavier force of 80 grams compared to the Silent Ink Black's 70 grams.

This means that the NovelKeys Blueberry provides a lighter initial keystroke, making it easier to trigger without applying too much pressure. This could be beneficial for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black requires slightly more force to activate, providing a more substantial push feel that some typists may prefer for a more tactile typing experience.

It's worth noting that both switches fall within the heavier range in terms of bottom out force, suggesting that they would both provide a solid and satisfying feel when fully pressed. So, while the NovelKeys Blueberry is lighter in terms of actuation force but heavier when bottoming out, the Silent Ink Black falls in between with a slightly heavier actuation force but a lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience – whether one prefers a lighter touch or a more substantial keystroke.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. In the case of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it has a travel distance of 4 mm. Similarly, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, both switches have the same travel distance, allowing users to experience a consistent key press experience with similar results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch has a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a deeper, bass-heavy tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound is described as clean and sharp, offering an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is classified as muted, which means it produces a softer and quieter sound. This switch is specifically designed for environments that require reduced noise levels. It minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a more peaceful typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to the feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a snappy and invigorating typing experience. It has a sharp tactile bump, which gives it a responsive and lively feel. The switch is also described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. However, some users might find it slightly textured or scratchy due to noticeable friction when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is known for its silky and polished feel. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch has a refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Taking all the available information into account, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Blueberry switch is characterized by its sharp tactile bump, low-pitched resonant sound, snappy and invigorating feel, and a possible slight texture. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch is valued for its silence, silky smoothness, polished feel, and cushion-like bottom-out. While these switches have different characteristics, they provide unique typing experiences tailored to individual preferences. If you enjoy the sharp tactile feel of the Blueberry switch, you can expect a similar, although quieter, typing experience with the Silent Ink Black switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are someone who values a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, then the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a snappy and invigorating typing sensation, making your typing experience feel more alive. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a heavier bottom-out force, the Blueberry switch has a force of 80 grams. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be the better option. With its muted sound profile and cushion-like bottom-out feel, it is perfect for environments that require minimal audio feedback. The Silent Ink Black provides a silky and polished typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined finish. Furthermore, with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams, this switch strikes a balance between ease of actuation and a slight resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of tactile feedback, sound, and typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more