Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

Are you in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch but not sure which one to choose? Let's take a look at two popular options: the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch, and the TTC Silent Red, a linear switch. The NovelKeys Blueberry is well-known for its sharp tactile bump, providing users with a satisfying and precise typing experience. While it has a lower-than-average sound frequency, it still delivers a deep and invigorating sound. On the other hand, the Silent Red is perfect for those who crave a smooth and seamless typing experience without the noise. With a muted sound profile, it is ideal for office or shared living space use. The Silent Red also offers a consistent feel from top to bottom, with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

TTC Silent Red Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the TTC Silent Red switches differ in terms of sound profiles. The Blueberry's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound. In contrast, the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The difference in sound profile can be attributed to the stiffness of the polycarbonate material, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound compared to the POM material. If RGB lighting is a priority, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Silent Red switch makes it a more suitable choice.

In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Blueberry switch utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes to its deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch incorporates a nylon bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the harder POM material. Therefore, the choice between the Blueberry and Silent Red switches may depend on the preference for either a deeper and muted sound or a deeper and fuller sound when typing.

When comparing the overall impact of the housing materials on the switch, it is important to consider the top and bottom housings separately. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Whether using the Blueberry or Silent Red switches, the qualities of their respective housing materials will contribute to these specific moments during typing.

Weight

When it comes to actuation and bottom out forces, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch offer different options to cater to different preferences. The NovelKeys Blueberry has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, requiring a stronger push to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Red offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to activate with a lighter touch. In terms of bottom out force, the NovelKeys Blueberry is heavier with a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. The Silent Red, however, has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, striking a balance between a solid feel and a lighter touch. Thus, those seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Red, while those in search of a more substantial and heavier feel may opt for the NovelKeys Blueberry.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is clear that the Blueberry has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the Silent Red's 3.7 mm. A switch's travel distance is the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance felt when pressing down on a key. The NovelKeys Blueberry falls within the more traditional range of 4.0 mm, while the Silent Red is slightly shorter at 3.7 mm. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, often prefer shorter travel distances. In this case, the Silent Red would be the preferred option. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt, preferring a deeper feel. For those who prefer more "hearty depth," the longer travel distance of the NovelKeys Blueberry would be the better choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch produces a low-pitched sound with a clean and sharp profile. This switch delivers a bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is known for its muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The Silent Red is perfect for environments such as offices or shared living spaces where noise reduction is desired. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preferences and the environment they will be using the keyboard in.

When it comes to feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a snappy and invigorating typing experience. It has a sharp tactile bump that provides pronounced feedback, making each keystroke feel responsive and alive. Additionally, this switch has a buttery and textured feel, providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation with noticeable friction. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch offers a buttery and polished feel. It delivers a seamless and effortless typing experience with a consistent feel from top to bottom. The Silent Red switch also offers a padded bottom-out feel, maximizing comfort during long typing sessions.

Overall, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch is best suited for those who prefer a sharp and tactile typing feel with a lower-than-average sound frequency. This switch delivers an invigorating typing experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is ideal for those who prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience without the noise. It produces a muted sound with a buttery and polished feel. Both switches offer different subjective qualities, allowing users to customize their typing experience based on their preferences. It's important to note that the sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, it is recommended to consider these factors when choosing between the NovelKeys Blueberry and TTC Silent Red switches.

Conclusion

In closing, if you value a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, then the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches provide a snappy and invigorating typing experience, making every keystroke feel alive. Additionally, they have a heavy bottom-out force of 80 grams, which may benefit those who prefer a more substantial typing feel.

On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience with a muted sound profile, then the TTC Silent Red linear switch would be the perfect fit for you. These switches offer a buttery and polished feel, ensuring effortless and uniform key presses. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, they strike a balance between ease of typing and a slight resistance to prevent accidental keystrokes.

Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the TTC Silent Red switches depends on personal preferences. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and a lower-pitched sound, the NovelKeys Blueberry would be a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience, the TTC Silent Red would be the ideal choice. Consider your typing style, working environment, and desired feel to make an informed decision.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more