Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Jwick Taro

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Jwick Taro, both tactile switches. The NovelKeys Blueberry is known for its sharp tactile bump, offering a typing feel that is favored by those who enjoy a sharp response. Additionally, it emits a lower-than-average sound frequency, resulting in a deeper but not overly bulky sound. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro provides a cozy typing experience, complemented by its subdued color scheme. The Taro switch offers a medium-level of tactility, providing a snappy feel while producing acute and crisp clacks.

While these general descriptions offer a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, it is important to dive deeper into the details to make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

Jwick Taro Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Jwick Taro switches provide distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The Blueberry switch features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This creates a pleasing and unique typing experience. Contrastingly, the Taro switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced and clear typing sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Taro switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element.

In terms of bottom housing material, the Blueberry switch incorporates a POM bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This contributes to its deep and muted sound profile. Conversely, the Taro switch incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typing sound. This provides a different auditory experience compared to the Blueberry POM bottom housing.

However, it's worth noting that the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch can vary. While the bottom housing plays a greater role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, the top housing has more influence on the sound when the key is released. This means that both the Blueberry and Taro switches will deliver a unique typing experience due to their distinct housing materials, albeit with different qualities emphasized.

In summary, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and Jwick Taro switches feature contrasting housing materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles and aesthetics. The Blueberry's POM housing delivers a deeper and more muted sound, while the Taro's polycarbonate housing provides a sharper and crisper typing sound. Similarly, the POM and nylon bottom housings of the Blueberry and Taro switches, respectively, offer distinct auditory experiences. Nonetheless, the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing feel can differentiate the switches further.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The NovelKeys Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is considered relatively light, while the Taro's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Blueberry has a heavier measurement of 80 grams, whereas the Taro measures at 67 grams, making it slightly lighter in comparison.

For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry is a suitable option. With its lower actuation force, users can type for longer periods without experiencing significant fatigue. The heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing experience, which could be desirable for those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro offers a medium-heavy actuation force, providing a balance between ease of typing and a satisfying keystroke response. While its bottom out force is lighter than the Blueberry, it still offers a satisfying amount of resistance for a well-rounded typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences. Those who prioritize a lighter feel and longer typing sessions may find the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry more suitable, while individuals who prefer a slightly heavier key press may opt for the Jwick Taro. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer tactile feedback and can enhance the typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Blueberry being slightly longer than the Taro. For those who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Taro may be preferred. Gamers, in particular, often opt for switches with shorter travel distances for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deliberate key press may find the longer travel distance of the Blueberry more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have a lower-than-average sound frequency. They produce a deep but not "thocky" tone, with a clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches have a neutral sound profile, with a moderate level of sound. This makes them suitable for a variety of purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you're using them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, both the NovelKeys Blueberry and Jwick Taro switches offer a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless sensation. Additionally, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches are known for their snappy and invigorating feel, offering pronounced feedback and a reactive typing experience. They are also described as stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches are described as stepped, meaning they have a more mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.

Taking all the available information into account, it's clear that both the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and Jwick Taro switches offer their own unique qualities. The NovelKeys Blueberry switches are known for their sharp tactile bump, invigorating feel, and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches provide a cozy typing experience with their subdued color scheme, a moderate level of tactility, and a neutral sound profile. While the two switches may differ in certain aspects, they both offer a buttery typing feel. Therefore, if you are looking for a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, you can expect similar results from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences in terms of the level of tactility, sound profile, and typing experience you desire.

Conclusion

To wrap up, if you are someone who enjoys a sharp typing feel with a lower-than-average sound frequency, then the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a snappy and invigorating typing experience due to their sharp tactile bump. Additionally, if you prefer switches with a heavier bottom out force, the Blueberry's 80-gram force would suit your needs. On the other hand, if you are looking for a comfortable and cozy typing experience with a medium-level of tactility, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is a solid option. These switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. Furthermore, if you prefer switches with a lighter bottom out force, the Taro's 67-gram force would be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Jwick Taro tactile switch would depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Jwick Taro Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more