Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and TTC Venus stand out with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blueberry switch is ideal for those seeking a sharp tactile bump in their typing experience, with a lower-than-average sound frequency that is satisfying but not overwhelmingly loud. On the other hand, the Venus switch boasts a unique "Q-texture" feel, offering a smooth and frictionless press with a light actuation for rapid typing. While the Blueberry is described as "snappy" and "invigorating," the Venus is characterized as "buttery" and "muted." Both switches have their own appeal, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry features POM top and bottom housings, offering a unique sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. In contrast, the TTC Venus utilizes a POM top housing but has a polycarbonate bottom housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Venus creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the NovelKeys Blueberry. This difference in bottom housing material leads to a noticeable variation in the overall sound and feel of the switches.
While both the NovelKeys Blueberry and the TTC Venus share a POM top housing, the use of different materials in the bottom housing results in distinct characteristics. The NovelKeys Blueberry maintains a consistent sound profile throughout the press and release of a key due to its POM bottom housing. In contrast, the TTC Venus, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, offers a more clear and resonant sound when the key is pressed down. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how material choice can impact the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the TTC Venus comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer a pleasing and unique sound thanks to their POM top housing, but the polycarbonate bottom housing of the TTC Venus may appeal to those looking for a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, while the two switches have similarities in the top housings, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound quality and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is evident that the Blueberry switch is heavier in both aspects compared to the Venus switch. The NovelKeys Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a substantial typing experience with a strong push feel. On the other hand, the TTC Venus has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. The difference in weight between the two switches offers users the option to choose based on their preference for a heavier or lighter keystroke feel. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and preference for users, allowing them to select the switch that best suits their needs.
Travel distance
The NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the TTC Venus linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the standard range of travel distances, with 4.0 mm being more traditional and 3.0 mm on the shallower side, the slight difference between the two may impact user preference. Gamers, who prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, may lean towards the Venus switch. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper keystroke experience may find the NovelKeys Blueberry more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a deep yet sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch delivers a low-pitched, muted, subdued sound with a touch of thockiness, creating a more gentle and quieter typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Blueberry offering a slightly deeper tone and the Venus providing a more subdued and quieter sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is characterized by a snappy, buttery, and invigorating typing sensation, offering a responsive and lively tactile experience. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch provides a buttery, gummy, frictionless, and mild feel, creating a smooth and gentle keystroke experience with minimal resistance and a unique texture akin to bottoming out on a trampoline. Each switch offers a distinct typing feel, with the Blueberry focusing on responsiveness and feedback, while the Venus prioritizes smoothness and a unique, frictionless sensation.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blueberry provides a sharper tactile bump and a lower-pitched, resonant sound profile, alongside a snappy and invigorating typing feel. On the other hand, the Venus switch offers a more muted, gummy sound with a frictionless and mild feel, delivering a smooth and engaging typing experience. Both switches excel in different aspects, catering to users seeking specific sound and feel preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing sensations, with the Blueberry offering a sharper tactile experience and deeper sound, while the Venus provides a smoother, quieter, and more unique typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch or the TTC Venus linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the NovelKeys Blueberry might be the right choice for a more snappy and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a seamless, frictionless glide with a captivating "Q-texture" and a sound signature that is muted and neutral, the TTC Venus could be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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