Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Everglide Sunset Yellow offer distinctive features that cater to different preferences. The Blueberry switches are known for their sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing feel for those who prefer a precise feedback. Additionally, these switches produce a slightly lower-than-average sound frequency, adding to their unique appeal. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switches boast a captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding. With a rich, bassy, and decadent sound, typing becomes an indulgent experience. These switches have a medium-weight, making them suitable for a wide range of users. The POM stem and proprietary factory lube method of the Sunset Yellow switches contribute to a distinct gliding feel, while their short travel and long-pole stem ensure a sharper and highly responsive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches use POM (Polyoxymethylene) for their top and bottom housings. This material is known for creating a satisfying and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become apparent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the impact of the top housing is felt when releasing a key.

Despite the similarities, there may be subtle differences between the two switches in terms of the housing materials. While both switches utilize POM, variations in the manufacturing process or composition may result in slightly different sound characteristics. This could result in nuanced variations in the sound and feel when using the switches. It is important to note that POM itself already provides a pleasing sound experience, so the differences between the NovelKeys Blueberry and the Sunset Yellow may be minimal and may not significantly affect the overall user experience.

In summary, the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches are largely the same, with both switches incorporating POM for their top and bottom housings. These housings contribute to the switches' satisfying and unique sound profiles, which are deeper and relatively more muted. While there may be slight variations in sound characteristics due to potential differences in manufacturing or composition, the overall experience for users is likely to be similar. The differences between the two switches, if any, may be subtle and may not drastically impact the performance or user satisfaction.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The NovelKeys Blueberry has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, requiring a stronger push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it easier to activate the switch. When it comes to bottoming out, the Blueberry requires a considerable force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In comparison, the Sunset Yellow has a lower bottom out force of 51 grams, resulting in a lighter and softer keystroke.

Considering the weight aspect, some users might prefer the lighter weight of the Sunset Yellow switch as it allows for longer typing sessions without tiring fingers. This feature is particularly suitable for those using a keyboard during work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. Alternatively, individuals seeking a more solid and tactile typing experience may opt for the Blueberry switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out force. It provides a satisfying push feel that contributes to a more substantial typing experience.

While the actuation and bottom out forces differ between these switches, both options offer advantages based on individual preferences. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier touch, these switches can cater to a range of typing or gaming needs.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2mm. The NovelKeys Blueberry offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the average range of travel distances, with the Blueberry being on the longer side and the Sunset Yellow on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired feel when using the switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a lower-pitched sound profile. This means that the sound has a deeper tone with a slight bass element. The sound is not overly loud but still provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch produces a rich and bassy sound. The sound is reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding and offers a decadent experience. It has a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches provide unique and enjoyable sound profiles, with the Blueberry being lower-pitched and the Sunset Yellow being bassy.

In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a sharp tactile bump, providing a snappy and invigorating typing experience. The switch has a certain level of texture or scratchiness, which adds to the overall feel. It is a stiff switch that requires more force to actuate and bottom-out, providing a more tactile feedback to the typist. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch has a distinct gliding feel due to its unique POM stem and proprietary factory lube method. This creates a creamy and frictionless typing experience, similar to effortlessly melting into each keystroke. The smooth and effortless travel of the Sunset Yellow switch makes it a delight to type on. Both switches offer distinct feels, with the Blueberry being snappy and textured, and the Sunset Yellow being creamy and frictionless.

Considering all the available information, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch provide different subjective qualities. The Blueberry has a sharper tactile bump, which caters to those who prefer a more pronounced feedback and a stiffer typing experience. It offers a lower-pitched sound with a slight bass element. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow has a smooth and gliding feel, offering a creamy typing experience with minimal friction. It produces a rich and bassy sound, reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding. Both switches have their own unique attributes that cater to different preferences. While the Blueberry excels in sharpness and texture, the Sunset Yellow provides a luxurious and smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preference, one can choose the switch that best suits their desired typing feel and sound profile.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a sharp and responsive tactile bump with a lower-than-average sound frequency, the NovelKeys Blueberry would be an excellent choice. It offers a snappy and invigorating typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a heavier bottom-out force.

On the other hand, if you value a captivating sound profile and a smooth, effortless typing experience, the Everglide Sunset Yellow may be the switch for you. With a rich and bassy sound, this switch provides a satisfying typing sensation. It offers a medium-light bottom-out force, making it suitable for a wider range of users.

Both switches have unique characteristics that set them apart. The NovelKeys Blueberry's low-pitched and resonant sound profile, combined with its snappy and stiff feel, creates a distinct typing experience. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow's bassy and thocky sound, along with its creamy and frictionless feel, ensures a smooth and indulgent typing experience.

All in all, whether you choose the NovelKeys Blueberry or the Everglide Sunset Yellow, both switches offer their own unique advantages. Consider your sound and feel preferences, as well as your desired typing experience, to make an informed decision. Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.09 per 10

Learn more